Vehicle Health Checks across Taplow & Maidenhead

  
Most of us only think about what’s under the bonnet when something goes wrong. But taking just a few minutes to carry out a health check on your vehicle can save you a lot of time, money and stress further down the road.

Here’s a quick guide to the six key checks you can do yourself and what to look out for.

Windscreen Washer Fluid

Keeping your windscreen clean is essential for clear visibility, especially during the wetter months. To check your washer fluid, simply open the bonnet and locate the washer fluid reservoir, it usually has a windscreen wiper symbol on the cap. If it’s running low, top it up with a screenwash solution mixed with water. Avoid using plain water as it can freeze in winter and won’t clean as effectively.

Coolant

Your coolant keeps your engine temperature regulated and prevents overheating. To check it, look for the coolant reservoir, a translucent plastic tank near the radiator and check the fluid sits between the minimum and maximum markers. Always check coolant when the engine is cold, never when it’s hot, as the system is pressurised and can cause serious burns.

Engine Oil

Engine oil lubricates your engine’s moving parts and is one of the most important things to keep on top of. To check it, locate the dipstick, usually marked with a brightly coloured handle, pull it out, wipe it clean, reinsert it fully and pull it out again. The oil level should sit between the two markers. If it’s low, top it up with the correct grade of oil for your vehicle (check your owner’s manual if unsure). Engine oil is also checked and replaced as part of a routine car service, so if you’re due a service it’s a great time to get everything checked at once. Visit rac.co.uk for more information on how to check your engine oil.

Transmission Fluid

Transmission fluid helps your gears shift smoothly and protects your gearbox from wear. On many vehicles this can be checked via a dipstick similar to the engine oil, though on some modern cars it’s a sealed system best left to a professional. If your gears feel rough or hesitant, it’s worth getting it looked at sooner rather than later.

Brake Fluid

Brake fluid is essential for safe, responsive braking and should never be overlooked. Locate the brake fluid reservoir, usually a small translucent container near the back of the engine bay, and check the level sits between the min and max markers. If it’s consistently low, this could indicate a leak or that your brake pads are wearing down, both of which need professional attention.

Battery

Your battery provides the power needed to start your vehicle and keep your electronics running. While a full battery test requires specialist equipment, there are a few signs to watch out for; slow engine cranking when you start the car, dimming headlights, or warning lights on the dashboard. If you notice any of these, it’s a good idea to get your battery tested before it leaves you stranded.

Leave it to the experts

These simple checks take just a few minutes and can make a real difference to your car’s reliability and safety. But if you’d rather have a professional cast an eye over everything, we’re here to help.

At L&J Vehicle Specialist in Taplow, we carry out vehicle health checks for drivers across Maidenhead, Marlow, Slough, Burnham and the surrounding areas.

 

Get in touch with the team today – book your vehicle health check here  – or give us a call on 01628 669111