Valentine’s Day is coming up in less than a week and while Valentine’s Day traditionally focuses on couples showing love to one another all across the world, there is one relationship that often is neglected. Valentine’s Day is about showing others love and affection, so why not show your Car some love as well? Take the time to get caught up on the vehicle maintenance tasks that you always keep pushing off to show love to your Car. It’s always there for you, getting you where you need to go. A little extra care this Valentine’s Day in the form of an oil change, tune-up and basic service is the perfect gift for the one who keeps you going.
“Don’t let your car break your heart by neglecting to take care of it,” said Noel Gibbons road safety officer Mayo County Council.
“Being car care aware can add years of useful life to your relationship with your vehicle and keep you from being stranded because of an unexpected breakdown. We normally just wait until we have to face the dreaded NCT test before we pay some attention to our vehicles ( If caught using a car without a valid NCT certificate you could get three to five penalty points and a €60 to €90 fine).Five of the most common failure issues in the NCT test are
1. Tyre tread depth and damage
2. Front suspension damage or imbalance
3. Brake line or hose problems
4. Headlamp aim
5. Faulty or missing stop lamps
The road safety office of Mayo County Council recommends a little tender loving auto care this Valentine’s Day and beyond.
Tom Cullen Director of The Society of the Irish Motor Industry said
• "Schedule a tune-up annually to optimize your car’s performance. A well-tuned engine delivers the best balance of power and fuel economy and produces the lowest level of emissions.
• Change the oil and filter per the owner’s manual. Periodic oil and filter changes keep your engine clean on the inside.
• Check the tire pressure monthly, including the spare. Your car’s tires affect its ride, handling, traction and safety.”
• Have the alignment checked annually. Potholes and other road conditions, as well as normal wear, can take their toll on your car’s steering and suspension. A wheel alignment reduces tire wear, improves fuel economy and handling, and increases driving enjoyment and safety.
• Inspect the windshield wipers and lights on the car. Lights and wipers play a major role in safe driving, and they are normal wear items that need periodic replacement.