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Read our essential guide to car maintenance. From checking your tyre pressure and brake pads to your oil and lights, it pays to look after your vehicle.

It pays to look after your car. From checking your tyre pressure and brake pads to your oil and lights, making small checks now could save you time (and money) later on.

Car maintenance checklist

How often do you carry out basic checks on your car? By taking the time to make sure it&rsquo;s safe and running smoothly you could save a lot of hassle in the future. Especially if this means you avoid serious situations like breaking down, having an accident or paying for costly repairs. 
&nbsp; 
It may only take a couple of minutes, but checking your car regularly for things like tyre pressure and brake fluid can help prevent bigger problems developing. What&rsquo;s even better is that these simple (but important) checks can be done yourself. 
 
In our essential guide, we show you what to check for, how to do this and why it matters.

If you&rsquo;re unsure, please refer to your car&rsquo;s manual for instructions on where to locate the items on this checklist (as makes and models may differ).

While our guide gives practical advice on keeping your car safe and running well, there are times when an expert (mechanic or breakdown response) may be needed.&nbsp; 
&nbsp; 
Look out for dashboard warning lights &ndash; especially if they&rsquo;re red. These can indicate a serious and potentially dangerous issue, such as a problem with the battery or braking system, low oil pressure or engine overheating. 
 
Understanding your dashboard warning lights is essential for your safety, so make sure you&rsquo;re familiar with <a href="https://www.hastingsdirect.com/car-insurance/guides/understanding-warning-lights/" 
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 >what each symbols means</a>.

It's free to SORN a car. You can do it online at the government's website, by phone or by post.

Our <a href="https://www.hastingsdirect.com/car-insurance/guides/" 
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 >motoring guides</a> are packed full of top tips to help keep you safe when driving.

Your car maintenance checklist

Engine oil

Tyre pressure and tread

Coolant and brake fluid

Battery health

Brake pads

Headlight bulbs

Air filter

Get the most out of your policy

Whether you&#39;re doing the towing or are the one being towed, here&#39;s what you need to know.

How to tow a car

What to do if you have problems on the road &ndash; and how to avoid breaking down in the first place.

Car breakdown advice

Don&#39;t panic! Read this guide on what to do if you&#39;re unlucky enough to be involved in a crash.

 Car accident advice

It&#39;s a common mistake that anyone can make, so here&#39;s what to do if you use the wrong fuel.

Car maintenance checklist

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Get the most from your car