MLOC Car Maintenance Page

Introduction

Regular maintenance is important in order to keep your car running and avoid the expense of buying a new one. Many of our members have saved thousands by keping the same car for over 20 years!

The following simple checks will ensure the longevity of you car:

Weekly checks

• Check all pipes and top up tobacco
• Check and top up tin of Worthers Originals
• Check tyres. If one is missing then replace it
  

  All road vehicles must have 4 tyres, any other number is illegal, although this law is regularly ignored by lorry drivers and motorcyclists (who remove their stabilisers). Robin Reliant owners can find their 4th tyre in the boot

• Polish car
• Check your fog lights work

Monthly checks

• Mirrors - Are there any cars behind you?
• Fog Light - Have you remembered to switch it off?

  Fog Lights should not be used unless there is snow, fog, hail, rain, light drizzle or cataracts. In these circumstances you must switch the fog light on. The only exception to this rule is if you are instructed to turn the fog light on by a matrix sign on the motorway, in these circumstances you must switch the fog light on even if it is clear.

• Brakes - a grinding noise indicates that the brakes are performing at their best.
• Nodding Dog - Check head and reattach if necessary
• Check and top up petrol tank

Yearly checks

• Check your spare headlight. The spare headlight is the one pointing towards the floor
• If you are using your spare headlight because the main headlight has blown, consider replacing the bulb soon
• Indicators - Although these are unnecessary in normal driving, they are still required for the MOT so check that they work

Indicators need a good stress test. Ideally you should find a long straight dual carriageway, drive in the right hand lane and turn your left indicator on. Keep going in a straight line for a minimum of 20 miles (30 minutes). Perform a U turn at a suitable turning point, then turn your right indicator on and return home.

• Check all body panels and structural parts of the car (eg sills) for rust. If rust is found then replace rusted part with chicken wire and filler
• Check and top up screenwash

Every 5 years

• Check and top up oil
• Check and replace slippers
• Check your spare brake light