With many people now returning to work or using their cars for the first time in weeks as the lockdown restrictions ease, we have some advice so local people can be prepared to start motoring again.
Nick Good, Sales Manager at Volvo Cars Cardiff, said: “We know that many of us haven’t been using our cars much in the past few months, but by following a few simple steps, you can ensure that your car is good to go as soon as you need it to be.”
Levels check
“Before you drive your car for the first time in a while, check all its fluid levels, including the engine oil, coolant, brake fluid, power steering fluid and screenwash. You’ll find full details of how to check these in the owner’s manual, although if you’re really not confident doing this yourself, your local retailer can help.”
Check those tyres
“The tyres are the only part of your car that is in contact with the road, so looking after them is vital. Ensure they are inflated to the correct pressure and check each one for cuts and bulges.”
Get your sponge out
“Wash off any dust and grime that has accumulated on the car so you can see out of it safely. Clean the windscreen wipers with glass cleaner – or vinegar, if you don’t have any – to ensure they don’t spread smears when you come to use them.”
Look after your battery
“Your car’s battery charge level is likely to be a little low as a result of the car not being driven much, so try to keep the engine running for at least 15 minutes to help partially recharge the battery.”
Put the brakes on
“The brakes may be noisy when you first drive your car, but this is perfectly normal if it has been left for a few days. Gently apply the brakes a few times to remove any rust that has built up on the brake discs and the noise should disappear.”
Use the air-con
“Make sure your car’s air-conditioning or climate control system is switched on. If the systems are not used regularly, their seals can dry out, potentially causing leaks.”
Check those important dates
“Check when your car’s MOT test, service and vehicle tax are due – it’s easy to forget about these when you’re hardly using your car. If your car was due an MOT from 30 March, you will have been granted a six-month extension on the test, although you still need to ensure that the car is in a safe and roadworthy condition.”
Update to something newer
“If the lockdown has had you yearning for a newer car, now’s the perfect time to find one at the Volvo Selekt Approved Used Car Event (Friday 3 to Monday 6 July), where we will be offering 0% APR finance on selected models*. We’re also offering customers video appointments and walkarounds of their chosen models of interest.”
At Volvo Cars Cardiff, drivers can enjoy the peace of mind that comes with a premium Volvo experience. All Volvo Selekt Approved Used Cars are checked, tested and approved by experts to ensure absolute Volvo quality. Only genuine Volvo parts are used, and a full software upgrade is also provided.
For further information about Volvo Cars Cardiff and the event and to view the full stock, please visit https://www.volvocarscardiff.co.uk/inventory/, alternatively call 02920 644 300 or email info@volvocarscardiff.co.uk.
IMPORTANT INFORMATION
* 0% APR available on Conditional Sale on selected used vehicles purchased through Volvo Car Financial Services from 3rd July until 6th July 2020 at participating retailers. Finance subject to status. 30% minimum deposit on V40 models. 50% minimum deposit on other models. Maximum term 36 months. Minimum £7,000 to finance. 18s or over. T&Cs apply. Offer on selected cars. Guarantees may be required. Volvo Car Financial Services, RH1 1SR.
