Car Maintenance – When do parts need to be replaced?

It is just a fact of driving life, car parts will need changing from time to time, either by us planning for it in advance or as a result of a part no longer working, a breakdown or at worst an accident. We would always recommend that you consult a professional mechanic in relation to the day to day running of your car but as a simple guide we have listed some of the most common items in your car that may need to be fixed or replaced.

Firstly, what parts need replacing from time to time?

Windscreen – One of the biggest safety features on our car protecting us from the weather elements but also flying stones when travelling behind or approaching vehicles but we sometimes ignore that chip or crack that is right in front of our face for weeks if not months. These chips or cracks can sometimes be fixed instead of replacing the full windscreen.

Windscreen Wipers – It’s important to make sure your wipers are working correctly. Simply by testing your wipers and seeing if they provide an interruption free arch on your window with no streaks will tell you if they need to be changed. You may also notice on the wiper if the rubber breaks, splits or cracks is starting to become detached is a good indication replacement wipers are needed. It is recommended that they are changed roughly on an annual basis.

Tyres – They say there is only millimetres between your car to the actual road surface so it’s imperative good tyres are maintained on your vehicle. Depending on the annual mileage you do will really impact the amount of time they can last on a vehicle. Are they fitted correctly, if not this can speed up the reduction of tyre tread. Tyres over ten years old should be replaced immediately. Even if they don’t show signs of wear, older tyres should be replaced. As they age, they are more likely to lose structural integrity, which could result in a blowout.

Did you know you can see the exact week and year the tyre was made on the side of the tyre and by law tyre tread must not be less than 1.6mm? If lower than 1.6mm they must be replaced immediately.

Engine Oil – Another item in your car that can sometimes be overlooked by drivers and how important it is to the smooth running of your car. The engine and its parts can be very costly to repair and having sufficient amounts of oil and regular change of oil is vital to reducing the possibility of repairs needed. Most cars now have an alert indicator so don’t ignore it.

Car Battery – Without it your car simply does not work. Usually on the battery the manufacturer indicates when the battery should be replaced.

What should you do if you have a mechanical breakdown? – H3

Most companies but not all provide breakdown assist as standard under a Comprehensive insurance policy. Some companies allow you to add it as an additional cover under Third Party Fire/Theft policies so it’s important to discuss this with your insurance broker at renewal time.

In the event of a mechanical breakdown on your current policy you can call us by calling 0818 800 222 Monday to Thursday 09.00 to 17.00 and Friday 09.00 to 17.00.

If outside these office hours, click here to visit our breakdown page where the breakdown

numbers to each company is provided. Click Here

The best car insurance quote for you from the leading insurers.

That’s it in a nutshell!