Local auto servicing Reading, UK right now: A faulty or clogged-up air filter could reduce your fuel efficiency and lead to reduced engine power, which is why mechanics recommend getting it replaced every 12 months or 12,000 miles, whichever comes first. If you think your filter needs checking or replacing, simply locate the filter (usually in a black box under the bonnet) and remove it, making note of how it fits before you insert the replacement and fasten the box back shut. More of a replacement than a check, but spark plugs are integral to the running of your engine – one or more faulty plugs will cause an engine misfire so it’s worth knowing how to replace them. Generally, spark plugs need replacing every 30,000 miles or so and you’ll need the right tools if you want to replace them yourself. Also check your handbook or consult a dealer to check that a DIY replacement is possible. Read additional details on car service Reading.
When and Why Should You Replace Your Windshield Wiper Blades? Visibility is paramount when it comes to safe driving which makes windshield wiper blades even more important than they might seem. Beyond ensuring clear vision during adverse weather, regular wiper replacement is a simple yet vital aspect of vehicle maintenance, a service we’re proud to offer as part of our commitment to your safety. Here are some tips on how to replace your windscreen wiper blades.
The brake system of your car is one of the most important, which is why you need to pay attention to the brake pads. Most owner’s manuals recommend you change the pads every 20,000 miles. However, if you drive your car every day, and have to brake more often, you might have to replace them more often. People who live in the city and have to deal with a lot of traffic and stop more often should consider changing the pads more often. Replacing the brake pads is a fast and relatively inexpensive process.
Is the technician trained on your specific vehicle make? Cars and trucks today are extremely complex machines, and their unique characteristics vary heavily from brand to brand. Making certain that your technician has obtained the proper training for your specific vehicle is crucial since special tools and procedures — many of which are not easily available to the “average” auto mechanic — are required to correctly service your auto.
Professional local vehicle service in Reading: This makes them impartial when inspecting your car – there’s no commercial incentive to find problems with it. For a list of local council MOT test centres that don’t carry our repairs, visit the website. Once a car is three years old (four years in Northern Ireland) it must be tested each year to check it meets road safety and environmental standards. This Ministry of Transport test is commonly known as an ‘MOT’. MOT tests are carried out at around 21,000 authorised test centres around the country, all of which display an official blue sign featuring three white triangles. Find even more details on carservice-centre.co.uk.
Major Car Servicing: This is a 53 point check list which covers all of the above of a full service plus we will download and plug in to your engines ECU and check for any fault codes that may be present and a report is given on our findings and any work that maybe be required we will inform you and give you a quote to fix these items but no work will be carried out without your prior knowledge and only carried out with your written approval. We offer a 24 hour vehicle recovery service and we will offer a 10% discount if your vehicle related problems are fixed in our workshop and we also offer a 24 hour Mobile Tyre Fitting Service at home your business or at the roadside. Battery maintenance: Car battery maintenance is also important. Keep cleaning it from time to time as dirt can reduce the current. Use a damp cloth to wipe it off. Avoid leaving the car on when the ignition is off, as it may weaken the battery life.
A 24 month major service suitable for average mileage vehicles covering 12000 miles per year. or at 24000 mile intervals for high mileage users The schedule is more comprehensive than most main dealer service schedules. The service includes oil and oil filter, air filter, pollen filter, fuel filter and spark plug changes. All tops ups to the engine bay area are included. It is a comprehensive service with all wheels removed and brakes inspected, cleaned and adjusted. A Free diagnostic scan, vehicle health check and test drive by a qualified technician are all included.
The MoT cost is controlled by law, with a maximum charge for cars set at £54.85. An individual MoT test centre can choose to charge less, so it’s worth shopping around. If you think you’ve a chance of failure, make sure you pick an MoT test centre that offers free retests within 10 days, as you can be charged a partial retest fee. If repairs take longer, you’ll have to pay the full fee again. Many garages are able to conduct MoT tests, although if you’re suspicious of garages that will charge for unnecessary work, it’s probably best to take your car to a dedicated MoT test centre.
Keep up with oil changes. When oil levels are low, or oil is old, added friction between moving parts can cause wear and tear to the engine. Follow your owner’s manual to determine the best intervals for changing oil. Check the brakes every time the oil is changed. Take care of your tires. Check and maintain proper tire pressure. Tires inflated within five pounds per square inch (PSI) of their recommended level improve gas mileage and general handling of your vehicle. Recommended PSI can be found in the owner’s manual. Rotate tires every 5,000 to 8,000 miles.
Car battery prices vary, and models fitted with stop-start systems need a heavier-duty battery that can cost much more than the standard type, depending on the size, type and the electrical current produced. There are dozens of combinations on offer, so make sure you get the correct one for your car. If you can’t start your car, but have access to a 12-volt power supply in another car, then you can use a set of jump leads. If you’re skilled enough and it’s accessible, you could remove the battery and charge it indoors. This can be complex, not least because car batteries are heavy. You should always refer to the owner’s manual.
What tools do I need to service my own car? When it comes to servicing your own car, it’s essential you have the right tools and equipment to ensure you’re doing it safely otherwise you could be putting your car, yourself, and other road users at risk. Jack up your car, unscrew the sump plug in your engine, making sure you’ve removed the oil cap and placed a suitable drain tray underneath to collect the used oil. Next, remove the oil filter with the oil filter remover and wait for all the oil to drain out. When you’re ready, place the new oil filter in the same position, lightly wetting the rubber seal with new oil to give it a stronger seal. Refit the sump plug, remembering to replace or renew the washer around the sump plug first. Finally, use a funnel to slowly pour in the new oil, checking the dipstick regularly to ensure you don’t overfill. Run the engine for 10 minutes to allow the oil to circulate, then check to ensure the oil filter and sump plug are not leaking. After turning off the engine and allowing the oil level to settle, use the dipstick to ensure the oil is at the maximum.