You’ve heard me joke numerous times about feeling like a taxi for our children; the truth is at times this is true. The family car plays a major part in our life. 5am starts for ice skating, motorway miles for competitions and that’s before you add the usual school runs and youth groups to the mix.
I couldn’t imagine trying to survive without our car it is rather important to me especially as my illness can leave it hard for me to walk any great distance.
So when Sainsbury’s Finance offered us a chance to share their advice on Car protection I willingly agreed to do so.
Keep your motor safe – a guide for maximum protection
Treating your car to a wash, rinse and polish can fill you with pride and satisfaction, but there are many other ways in which you can care for your vehicle. There are a number of steps you can take to improve your chances of trouble-free motoring; giving you the peace of mind that you’re doing all you can to protect your pride and joy.
Happy car, happy driver
Simple, regular maintenance of your car, such as checking oil and tyre pressure, can reduce the chances of a costly problem further down the line.
Get into a routine of carrying out regular simple checks across your vehicle.
Under the bonnet you should be checking oil, coolant, brake fluid, power steering fluid and washer fluid, topping up and/or replacing as necessary.
Outside of the car, check your tyres for air pressure and wear. Monitor wipers for damage and get any chips in the windscreen treated. Also check all your lights are in full working order, replacing bulbs if necessary.
With all these checks, consult your car’s manual for guidance, or speak to a mechanic if you need further assistance.
Preventing problems
Having your car damaged on purpose can cause a lot of upset and anger, so remember some simple rules on reducing the chances of vandalism: park your car in busy, well-lit areas. Keep your wing mirrors folded in and aerials down to avoid tempting vandals.
Car theft can cause even more stress and frustration, so it’s important not to make it easy for thieves by leaving your keys in the ignition or in a place where they can be easily stolen. (Likewise, don’t leave valuable items in your car.)
Car insurance
No matter how much you care for your car or take steps to prevent it being damaged or stolen, you need adequate car insurance cover if anything goes wrong.
Consider a good car insurance policy as part of your overall care of your vehicle, and try to strike a balance between cost and getting a good selection of features and extras you might need if you have to make a claim.
Even if you don’t have any problems, the insurance can give you peace of mind, along with all the work you put into looking after your vehicle.
Rebel with kindness 