Car Maintenance Tips (Oil, Tyres, Coolant, Wipers, Cam Belt, Filters, Spark Plugs)

Crabman

Official MoneySavingExpert.com Insert:

Spending a little time and effort to keep your car ticking over can often prevent greater expense at the time you least need it. MoneySaver Crabman has compiled a wonderful list of the forum's discussions on regular car maintenance.

First read Martin's articles in the Cars and Transport MoneySaving section of the main site then, to read the info below, simply scroll down this page and click on the link for a discussion that interests you. If you have a top tip or suggestion then simply click reply at the bottom of that discussion. Please do remember though, that MoneySavingExpert's forum is an open forum that absolutely anyone can post messages on and that posts are not monitored so take your own circumstances into consideration when reading them and if in doubt always check with a professional.

Crabman's list is closed to posting so that it can be kept neat and tidy.

Many thanks Crabman!

Car Maintenance Tips & Repairs

Weekly Checks (see indivual posts below)
If you are unsure about any aspect of the below checks, consult your vehicle manual.

Haynes manuals are also very helpful for DIY maintenance and repairs).

Special thanks to anewman & goldspanners for help in getting this together & checking over.

Please post on the Questions & Suggestions Thread if you've any feedback/questions.


Car Cleaning/Maintenance Tips
Great 'Keep Your Car Tip Top For Less' Hunt
Cleaning inside windscreen
Home Made car window cleaner
Removing oil from carpets?
Remove vomit smell from car upholstery
Remove car stickers
Remove Rust stains from car boot carpet?
Sand and pet hair removal
Smoke smell - worth a valet to get rid of it?
Stop locks from freezing
NEW! Thinking about a Diesel? You Need to know about DPFs
Waxing car
What to use on faded black rubber on car


Damage, Repairs & Servicing
Cam belt change
Car vibrating when idle...any ideas?
Claim from council for wheel damage
Dent Removal – Using nothing but dry ice (don’t forget thick gloves!)
Engine Management Light Flashing
Engine 'squeak' noise at start up?
Halfords Trade Card
Heating Element in Rear Windscreen Repair Needed
Jump Starting your car (PDF)
Removing Lacquer Scratches
Scuffed my car, how do I restore it?
Stop Car Locks freezing in Winter
Spark plugs stuck
Tesco and/or Morrisons contaminated Petrol
Tescos petrol - contaminated again?
Ways of getting rid of scratches
Will Servicing at a non-dealer void my warranty?
What do you keep in your car?
Why get a car serviced at the dealer's garage?

Scams/Rip-offs Discussion
Improving my old cars fuel use with magnets ?
Magnetic Fuel Savers
Reducing Petrol Prices by boycotting ESSO/BP
Water4Petrol Water4cars -Scam or Miracle?

Useful Websites
See Motoring Websites thread

If you spot any dead links or have suggestions, please send me a PM.

[threadbanner]box[/threadbanner]

Crabman

Engine Oil & Filter
[CHECK: EVERY WEEK]
[RENEW: 6-12 MONTHS]

How to Check Oil Level
The engine should be relatively cold (ideally left overnight), so that oil distributed when the engine is running can drain back into the sump. The vehicle should also be parked on level ground.

Locate the dipstick under the bonnet (no, not you ). Pull it out, wipe any oil off the end & replace. A few seconds later, remove and check that the oil level is in between the High & Low markings on the dipstick. Check out the link below (Car Bibles - Engine Oil) for further details. If you're not 100% sure, consult your vehicle manual before attempting this procedure.

Important! If the red oil warning light on your dashboard comes on whilst driving, stop and switch off the engine asap to prevent potentially serious engine damage.

Replace Oil & Filter Regularly
Regular renewal of engine oil (and filter) is essential for long happy engine life. It isn't too difficult to DIY though do ask for advice on the Motoring Board if you're attempting this for the first time.

Typical intervals between 6-12 months (dependent on mileage) should be sufficient to keep parts lubricated adequately and avoid build-up of sludge. To find out more about sludge and how it affects your vehicle, check out the 'Car Bibles - Engine Oil' link below.

Useful Websites
Car Bibles - Engine Oil (external link)
Motor oil - Wikipedia (external link)
Oil Disposal - find your nearest centre (external link)
Recycle Now - Recycling Engine Oil (external link)
Removal of oil stains from fabric/clothing (external link)
Removal of oil stains from carpets (external link)
What does the "W" on Engine Oil mean? (external link)

Forum Threads
URL="http://forums.moneysavingexpert.com/search.html?do=process&query=oil&forumchoice%5B%5D=70&titleonly=1"]Motoring Board Search Results[/URL
Special Oil for a Diesel Engine?

Crabman

Engine Coolant/Anti-Freeze
[CHECK: EVERY WEEK]
[RENEW: 24 MONTHS]

What is Engine Coolant?
A mixture of coolant and anti-freeze responsible for effective heat transfer around the engine and protection in extreme weather.

Checking Coolant Level
Warning: Do not open the radiator cap when the engine has been run recently/is warm, as the system will be pressurised and could result in serious burns.

Under the bonnet you'll find a plastic bottle with a blue/pink/purple liquid present. Check your vehicle/Haynes manual if you're not sure exactly where this is. Do not confuse this with the above mentioned radiator cap. If you need to open the radiator cap, do so only when the engine is cold & with a cloth over the cap to protect sensitive areas from spillage.

On the bottle will be "Min" and "Max" markings. Ensure that the liquid level is in between & if you find yourself needing to top-up regularly, take it to a reputable mechanic/garage to be checked for leaks. Note if the engine is hot at time of checking, the level may rise just above the "Max" marking - don't worry as this is normal.

Topping-up
Anti-freeze not only prevents freezing (you really don't want that to happen to the engine!) but also contains rust inhibitors which prevent the build-up of corrosion within the system. It's therefore vital that the correct concentration is maintained all year round to keep the radiator working optimally and hopefully leak free.

Useful Websites
How anti-freeze works (external link)
How to Change Your Antifreeze/Coolant (external link)
How to check coolant level (external link)
Overfilling engine coolant - what happens? (external link)
WikiAnswers - Antifreeze and Engine Coolant Questions (external link)

Forum Threads
URL="http://forums.moneysavingexpert.com/search.html?do=process&query=coolant&forumchoice%5B%5D=70&titleonly=1"][B]Coolant - Motoring Board Search Results[/B][/URL

Crabman

Tyre Pressures & Tread Depth
[CHECK & ADJUST WEEKLY]

How to check/adjust tyre pressures
Using a gauge to read tyre pressures only, or a foot pump/electric 12V air compressor to read and adjust. To check what each tyre should be inflated to, check around the driver's door panel, the vehicle manual or the website below.

What is Tread Depth
Simply, it's the depth of the grooves on your tyres. The UK legal minimum is 2mm. A greater depth delivers improved aquaplaning resistance (increased volumetric space for water to be removed) though also increases rolling resistance which slightly increases fuel consumption.

Tyres have a tread depth indicator - within the grooves you should notice a raised area of rubber - when this is level with the surface of the tyre, it's time for replacement.

Tracking & Alignment
Tracking ensures the wheels are angled correctly. This doesn't normally need adjusting unless abnormal tyre wear is noticed (see links below for details).

Useful Websites
Pressure Guide - find your tyre pressures here (external link)
Kwik Fit Tyre Advice (external link)
Rezulteo - tyre advice and reviews of different brands

Forum Threads
URL="http://forums.moneysavingexpert.com/search.html?do=process&query=tyre&forumchoice%5B%5D=70&titleonly=1"][B]Tyre - Motoring Board Search Results 1[/B][/URL
URL="http://forums.moneysavingexpert.com/search.html?do=process&query=tyres&forumchoice%5B%5D=70&titleonly=1"][B]Tyres - Motoring Board Search Results 2[/B][/URL
Best Budget Tyres?
Tyre rotation - do you bother doing it?
should i replace both front tyres?
I Wanna Save Money DIY Car Tracking Check

Online Tyre Retailers
Try to obtain quotes from local garages as some will be willing to match/beat the prices from online retailers.

Best Buy Tyres (external link)
Blackcircles.com (external link)
Camskill (external link)
etyres (external link)
FastTyres (external link)
JustTyres (external link)
MyTyres (external link)
Tyre Shopper (external link)

Tip: Cheap budget tyres may save a few quid now but could make the difference when braking on a wet/icy road in the future

Crabman

Operation of Vehicle Lights
[CHECK WEEKLY]

It's essential that lights are checked every week. In many cases, these are the only means of communicating information to other road users. Below is a list of common checks:

• Headlights - if recently used they will be very hot - in any case handle by the metal base as oil on skin can cause premature bulb failure.
• Indicators - Will normally flash more quickly if a bulb burns out.
• Reverse Lights + Brake Lights - if alone use a reflection, e.g. garage door.
• Fog Lights
• Number Plate Lights

Check local motor factors for replacment bulbs. It may be more convenient to buy a "breakdown set" comprising of a spare headlight, indicator bulb, brake light and reverse/fog bulbs for quick & easy replacement (note this kit is mandatory when travelling in some European countries). Also check out the sites listed below for comparison of prices. In most cases these prices can be beaten by using a motor factors/with a halfords trade card.

Crabman

Screenwash Fluid & Windscreen Wipers
[CHECK: EVERY WEEK]
[RENEW: AS NEEDED]

Screenwash Fluid
A relatively simple task which can be completed by almost anyone, windscreen fluid is the stuff squirted at your windscreen to clean away dirt & grime. It's essential for optimal visibility (and safety) that this is kept topped up.

Under your vehicle bonnet will be a washer bottle. This needs to be topped up with a mixture of screenwash detergent and water. In winter the concentration of screenwash (which usually includes anti-freeze) should be increased.

If you're not sure about the precise location of the washer bottle, check your vehicle/Haynes manual.

Windscreen Wipers
Can be cleaned with a dab of vinegar on a clean cloth if performance is poor. If this doesn't help, rubber refills are available at around £5 delivered but do check with local motor factors as they can often beat the best available retail price.

Useful Websites
Howstuffworks - How Windshield Wipers Work (external link)
Screen Wash - How to prevent freezing (external link)
Screenwash - Product Honours 2007 - Auto Express (external link)

Forum Threads
URL="http://forums.moneysavingexpert.com/search.html?do=process&query=wipers&forumchoice%5B%5D=70&titleonly=1"]Wipers - Motoring Board Search Results[/URL
Screenwash?
Windscreen Chips & Repair
Wiper blades - only need rubber refills
Wiper Blades - My new wipers are squeaky!

Crabman

Cam Belt/Timing Chain
[CHECK: 30,000 MILES/AS PER MANUFACTURER GUIDELINES]
[REPLACE: AS PER RESULT OF INSPECTION]

What's a Cam Belt?
A vital part of the engine responsible for correct timing of valves, thus ensuring a constant power ratio.

What's a Timing Chain?
Similar to a cam belt, except it's a metal chain which typically won't need replacing. The advantage, aside fom being more durable than a belt, is that if it does become loose/worn you'll hear a metallic 'clunking' noise from the engine which serves as a warning to get it replaced asap.

What happens if it fails?
Major damage to pistons/valves and a large repair bill, usually in the £500-£1000 region depending on vehicle. You'll hear a lot of noise and power will die away. If this happens to you, stop the engine immediately to prevent further damage.

When should it be checked & changed?
Consult your vehicle manual for details on when it should be checked/replaced.
For the reasons above, it's always safer to replace cam belt (and pulleys) sooner rather than later. Feel free to post your quotes on the Motoring Board for opinions and advice before having work carried out.

Useful Websites
Answerbank: What happens when a cam belt breaks? (external link)
Wikipedia: What is a Cam Belt/Timing Belt? (external link)

Forum Threads
URL="http://forums.moneysavingexpert.com/search.html?do=process&query=Cam%20Belt&forumchoice%5B%5D=70&titleonly=1"][B]Cam Belt - Motoring Board Search Results[/B][/URL
URL="http://forums.moneysavingexpert.com/search.html?do=process&query=Timing%20Chain&forumchoice%5B%5D=70&titleonly=1"][B]Timing Chain - Motoring Board Search Results[/B][/URL
Cam Belt Questions
Cam belt gone - do I have a case?

Crabman

Engine Air Filter
[CHECK: EVERY 12 MONTHS]
[RENEW: 12-24 MONTHS]

What's an Engine Air Filter?
Necessary for supply of clean air to the engine, a filter in good condition will help ensure optimal efficiency during combustion.

Checking Condition of Air Filter
Under the bonnet, look for a plastic casing (either square or circular). If unsure, check your vehicle/Haynes manual for precise location. Undo any clips and remove the cover to expose the air filter. Prior to removal, note which way it's fitted. Take a look at the underside and note whether it's relatively clean/clogged with black dust. If the latter, it's time to replace - read on...

Air Filter Replacement
Giving your local motor factors a call will invariably be cheaper than sourcing it via a main dealer/other commercial retailers. It takes under a minute to replace (literally, remove old, insert new - again make sure you note which way up/round it fits) so there's normally no need for this to be carried out by a garage provided you're confident with the procedure.

Useful Websites
Air Filter Information & Pictures (external link)
Wikipedia: What is an air filter? (external link)
VideoJug: How to change an air filter (external link)

Useful Forum Threads
/B][URL="http://forums.moneysavingexpert.com/search.html?do=process&query=air%20filter&forumchoice%5B%5D=70&titleonly=1"][B]Air Filter - Motoring Board Search Results[/B][/URL][B

Crabman

Spark Plugs
[CHECK: EVERY 12 MONTHS]
[RENEW: 24 MONTHS/20,000 MILES]

What is a Spark Plug?
In simple terms, it's an electrical component responsible for ignition of fuel in the engine. It doesn't take a bright spark (:p) to work out this is a vital component of the engine and therefore a priority in terms of trouble-free motoring.

Checking Condition of Spark Plugs
Before unplugging the HT leads, make sure each is numbered. It is absolutely essential these are plugged back in the correct order. Once unplugged, using a suitable ratchet/wrench over the spark plugs, unscrew gently and remove. If it appears to be jammed/stuck, take it to a garage for help - do not try to force it as the spark plug may break and cause further problems.

On some modern cars, instead of HT leads, there is a coil pack that sits on top of the spark plugs and has to be removed to access the spark plugs. It's usually a case of undoing the that hold them in to gain access to the spark plugs. [anewman]

Inspect the electrode - if quite black/oily or fairly white, this could indicate an engine problem (e.g. worn piston rings) requiring specialist attention. If it doesn't appear to have much sooty deposit near the base of the plug, it's probably ok to keep for a few more thousand miles.

If they look chocolatey brown, this indicates it's time to replace but that the engine mix is ok - i.e. there's not too much oil/fuel being burnt or water entering via the head gasket. [goldspanners]

Renewal of Spark Plugs
Check the new spark plugs are appropriate for your vehicle as the electrode gap varies between engines and manufacturers. In terms of MoneySaving, try your local motor factors as prices are nearly always a fraction of dealer/Halfords prices.

When installing spark plugs it's best to smear a small amount of copper grease onto the threads to stop them seizing in with the cylinder head. If they do seize (or snap), it'll be expensive to sort out later. [anewman]

When inserting spark plugs, fit a piece of garden hose over the end - this is to prevent cross-threading. The idea is if the threads aren't right, the hose will slip off, as it'll need more force to screw in. If this happens, remove and try again.

Check out the links below for a step-by-step guide to the entire check & renewal process complete with pictures.

Useful Websites
DIY Motoring: How to Change a Spark Plug (external link)
Wikipedia: What is a Spark Plug? (external link)

Forum Threads
URL="http://forums.moneysavingexpert.com/search.html?do=process&query=spark%20plugs&forumchoice%5B%5D=70&titleonly=1"][B]Spark Plugs - Motoring Board Search Results[/B][/URL