5 tips from Norwich expert to keep your car in peak condition in lockdown
How can you keep your car in top condition over lockdown? - Credit: Getty Images/iStockphoto
With the UK back to the instruction of "essential trips only", cars across the country are gathering dust on driveways and in garages.
Chief Executive of Holden Motors, Tim Holden - Credit: Archant
To make sure your car is in working condition when the time comes to get back on the road, a Norwich car retailer is offering some tips.
Tim Holden, CEO at Holden Motors on Barker Street, said: “Like everyone else, we’re really looking forward to getting back on the roads, going on holiday and visiting friends and family across the country when we can.
Six motoring laws have changed since the pandemic began last year - Credit: Getty Images/iStockphoto
"However, after months of being largely stationary, your car might not be in peak condition to set off on a long journey straight away."
Here are Mr Holden's top tips to keep your car in peak condition:
1. Battery basics
Six motoring rules have changed since the pandemic began in March 2020 - Credit: Getty Images/iStockphoto
One of the main issues people think about when they don't run their car for a while is the battery.
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A good way of making sure your car's battery remains charged is by running the engine for five minutes every four days when your car isn't being used.
The battery would usually re-charge as you drive the car, so when the car is not in use, the battery is more likely to go flat without you noticing.
2. Idle Time
With the UK back to the instruction of "essential trips only", cars across the country are gathering dust on driveways and in garages. - Credit: Getty Images/iStockphoto
Did you know that leaving the engine of your car running while stationary does not actually "warm the car up?"
Mr Holden says It is actually a myth and it, in fact, wastes fuel unnecessarily and is harmful to the environment.
The best way to bring your engine up to operating temperature is to drive the car gently at first.
3. Car placement
With the UK back to the instruction of "essential trips only", cars across the country are gathering dust on driveways and in garages. - Credit: Getty Images/iStockphoto
Storing your car on the side of the road for weeks on end isn't ideal for keeping it in perfect condition due to it being exposed to direct sunlight, rain and dust.
Mr Holden says it's a good idea to park your car somewhere sheltered such as a garage, however, if this isn't possible, it might be best to invest in a car cover to protect your vehicle from the elements.
It also means you avoid frost-covered windows!
4. Correct pressure
An under-inflated tyre can increase fuel consumption by 3pc Picture: Getty Images/iStockphoto - Credit: Getty Images/iStockphoto
Car Tyres naturally lose pressure over time, and it's very easy to miss this when your car is parked up for weeks on end.
According to Mr Holden, on average tyres lose one or two PSI of pressure per month, so be sure to check yours before you drive again!
Use a tyre pressure gauge to check your tyres are correctly inflated, you’ll find the recommended pressure in your car’s handbook, on the car’s bodywork you see when you open the driver’s door, or on the inside of the fuel filler cap.
5. Ask the experts
People found to be using their mobile phones while driving will now face stricter penalties - Credit: Getty Images/iStockphoto
During lockdown, most car retailers and garages are still open for MoT tests, services and repairs, so if you think there is something wrong with your car, it is still possible to have it checked out.
If you can’t leave your house, or would just like some advice about preparing your car for regular use, many showrooms are available for virtual appointments so you can ask questions.
