If you’re a new driver or someone who’s taken a break from driving and wants to get back into it, there are a few basics you’ll need to know.
It’s in the best interests of safety that you’re aware of the essentials.
How to do an oil change
A recent survey of over 2,000 motorists found that one in five drivers can’t identify the dipstick that is used to check your oil levels.
The oil keeps your car’s internal parts moving and prevents wear and tear. Without adequate oil, there could be significant damage to your engine. Therefore, it ought to be checked every year or every 9,000 miles, whichever comes sooner.
Simply park your car on level ground and find out from the manual where your dipstick is under the bonnet (unless your car has an electronic oil monitor). When you find it, pull it out and wipe it clean. Then put it back in and remove it once more, checking to see where the line of oil comes up between the dipstick’s minimum and maximum levels.
If it’s close to or below the minimum, get the correct type of oil for your car, locate the oil filler cap, and carefully pour some oil into it. Leave a few seconds for it to settle before redoing the dipstick test.
How to jump-start a car
At some point, you’re likely to be faced with a car that won’t start. Most commonly, this is due to a weak or flat battery, though it could also be an alternator problem or some other mechanical fault.
With a set of jump leads and another car that works, you’ll need to identify the positive and negative battery terminals (which you mustn’t get mixed up!).
Consult your car manual for detailed instructions. Make sure you are aware of all the other safety precautions needed beforehand, as you must clamp everything to the correct areas to avoid causing damage.
How to change the tyre
Tyres can get punctured at the most inopportune of moments. If your car has space, it’s always wise to carry a spare tyre in the boot. You may want to ensure it’s an all-season tyre that offers your car benefits in all road conditions.
Make sure you know how to change a tyre and have all the relevant tools in your car: a wrench, a jack, a wheel chock, a wheel nut key, and the handbook. A torch, warning triangle, gloves, reflective jacket, a short plank of wood, and tyre pressure gauge may all be useful as well.
How to change a spark plug
You’ll need your vehicle’s manual to locate the spark plugs in your car. It may also indicate how long their expected lifespan is. If they need replacing, you may have already noticed that you’re struggling to start the car, the acceleration is more sluggish, or that your fuel is disappearing faster.
To replace them, refer to the manual for the manufacturer’s factory requirements so that you buy the right type. Check the Repair Guide for your vehicle for the instructions to safely replace it.
The process usually involves removing the spark plug wire (only when the engine is cool and the car is parked on a flat surface), removing the coils on the plug, unscrewing the old spark plug, and replacing it with the new ones.
How to buff out scratches
If your car often gets scratches, it’s a good idea to find out how to buff them out. A car polishing machine can be a great investment if such is your plight. You should look for one that’s suitable for beginners, which you can use alongside polish, compound, or wax.
Knowing how to do all these little jobs yourself can help make car emergencies less stressful and cut out waiting times for the garage.
