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  • Tips for Keeping Your Car at its Best Whilst Off the Road

TIPS FOR LEAVING YOUR CAR PARKED FOR A LONG TIME AND GETTING BACK ON THE ROAD

During this period, you might not be driving your vehicle as regularly or you may be keeping it off the road all together. Therefore, we have put together some tips to keep your car in the best condition during, plus a handy checklist with what you need to before you get back on the road.

Battery care

If you are not driving your vehicle at all, once a week run the engine for one hour to prevent the battery from running flat. 

You must never do this in a garage as the fumes are toxic and even with your car outside, never leave your car engine running unattended.

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Hybrid Batteries

Electric vehicles and hybrids charge differently to conventional cars. All you need to do is press the start button with your foot on the brake, so the light comes on for one hour once a week to keep the battery topped up.

If you have a 12V battery trickle or a Solar panel charger, these will also keep the battery fully charged. Please make sure you know how to use them before trying this.

brakes

Whilst taking care of your battery, you can also give a little TLC to your brakes.

When your car is running, release the brake and move a short distance back and forth so they do not seize up. The wheels should be securely choked and the car on private land.

protect your paint work

Not everybody has the luxury of a garage to protect their car from the elements, but still consider where to park it if you can.

Sap from trees and bird droppings can affect your paintwork so if you can’t avoid it make sure you clean your car regularly. Plus, it is worth mentioning that keeping the interior of your car as clean as possible is more important than ever during this period.

Keep fuelled

If you can, it is advised to fill your car with fuel before leaving it for a long period to limit condensation and prevent rusting.

If you do go to the fuel station, please ensure you use the disposable gloves provided.

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keep on the road

Once you are ready to get back on the move again, it is important to check your car to make sure it is safe and legal before you get back on the road.

We have put together a checklist to give you peace of mind. However, it is best to get a full service once your car has been stood for a long time to make sure everything is running as it should be.

BACK ON THE ROAD CHECKLIST

  • Check that your car tax is still current. If it needs renewing you can visit the Government website here.
  • You can still book your car in for an MOT at any of our Centres during this period. Book here.
  • Before starting the engine check all fluid levels. If any warning lights come on and you are unsure as to why, please check your handbook before setting off or contact a member of our team who will be happy to help.
  • Lift the bonnet to confirm that no pipes have been chewed through or alternatively check no animals are nesting there.
  • You should check your tyre pressures and inflate if needed.
  • As a safety precaution, check the brakes, including the handbrake, make sure they have not seized up. Put the car into gear and set off slowly.
  • It is always a good idea to get a service if your car has been off the road for a while. Our Service Departments are open as usual so we can ensure your car remains road safe and legal. We are expecting demand for servicing appointments to be high so please secure your booking as soon as possible here.