The best car care tips every driver should know - Krugersdorp News

There are two types of motorists...those who start their car, wash it regularly and call for help when they have a problem. Other motorists take the time to inspect every inch of their vehicle, listening for every noise, hum and rattle, and taking immediate action when anything is heard.

Whether you drive a young vehicle or an older one, it deserves more than just a car wash to keep it looking good and running long.

"For most motorists, a car is an investment, and regular maintenance means they can enjoy years of safe driving, save fuel and avoid costly unscheduled repairs," said Jason Ravenscroft, Director of Franchise for Battery Center.

Here are the top five car care tips that battery experts trust and that all drivers should know:

• Rotate tires - distribute tire wear evenly and ensure maximum tire clearance. Check your car manual for rotation instructions; However, a good rule of thumb is every 9,000-12,000 km.

• Lighten your key fob – Limit your key fob to the one key needed to start your vehicle. A heavy load can wear out the firing pins and cause the ignition switch to fail. A warning sign that the switch is about to fail is if the key "sticks" when starting the vehicle.

• Always travel with an emergency kit — Include jumper cables (or jump starter power bank), flashlight, plug and power bank. All of these can be a lifesaver when your car breaks down.

• Check your windshield wipers - Worn windshield wipers can leave streaks on the windshield and affect your vision. Check the rubber bands for signs of tearing and replace if worn. It's an easy task that you can do yourself and shouldn't take more than 15 minutes.

• Be careful with the battery: Even if your battery is maintenance-free, you should keep an eye on it. Visually inspect and keep free of dirt and corrosion. Also, look out for any damage like cracks or dents, a telltale sign that the battery needs to be replaced.

Regular maintenance ensures your car stays on the road, reliable, looks good and saves you money on unscheduled repairs. In addition to this expert advice, battery specialists also recommend drivers to have their batteries checked twice a year. Regular battery checks can alert motorists to problems and extend battery life.

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