Owning your first car is an exciting time! Whether you’re in your teens and have just got your license, or you’ve spent years saving for your dream ride, there are a few important things you need to know when it comes to having your very own vehicle. Check out these top tips below to keep your car running smoothly! If you need some professional advice, or notice a weird sound in your vehicle, we’ve even found some great car service mechanics in Coffs Harbour.
How to check your oil
The first thing you need to know, is how to check your car oil—usually your engine will have bright yellow caps for anything that needs to be checked frequently (if you’re not sure, consult your car manual). Remove the oil cap and dipstick from the tank and wipe it clean with a rag. Re-insert it into the oil tank and compare the oil mark against the indicative lines on the dipstick. If the oil level is low, slowly fill it up, checking that you do not overfill the tank. Never check the oil straight after using your car, as it will be very hot.
How to check car fluids
As mentioned, most areas of the engine that need to be checked regularly have bright yellow caps. Depending on your car, this includes the water, the windscreen wiper fluid, power steering fluid, coolant and brake fluid. Similarly to checking your oil, each tank will have an indicator of some sort to show you the level.
How to change your tyre
It’s important to know how to change a tyre in the case of a flat.
How to check and fill up tyres
To avoid getting a flat tyre, there are a few things you can do. Firstly, check the treading of your tyres (these are the grooves). If the grooves aren’t very deep, or they’re non-existent, it’s time to invest in a new set! Bald tyres can cause accidents due to the lack of traction they have on the road.
Another thing to check is your tyre air pressure; each car is different, but you can usually find the recommended psi on the drivers door sill, inside the fuel filler cap or under the bonnet. Most fuel stations will have an area to fill up the air in your tyres, where all you have to do is key in the desired psi and attach the pump!
Pack an emergency kit
Last but not least, make sure you pack yourself an emergency kit so you’re prepared for anything. Click here for the 10 essentials you should keep in the car.
Need to find a mechanic to look at your new car? We’ve picked out a few of the best in the Coffs area for you.
Mills-Thom Mechanical Repairs & Servicing
For all of your car maintenance needs, Mills-Thom Mechanical Repairs and Servicing is the perfect motor mechanic for you . Whether you need a routine service, a new set of tyres or some emergency repairs, the skilled team can help you out. Mills-Thom Mechanical Repairs and Servicing are all qualified and only use the highest-quality products on your vehicle. Give the team a call to book in your next service!
Where: 1/6 June Street, Coffs Harbour NSW 2450
For a friendly local mechanic, visit the family-owned Authentic Automotive in Woolgoolga. From scheduled services, large repairs, clutch and brake servicing through to safety registration safety certificates, Authentic Automotive can do it all! With more than 35 years’ of experience providing motor mechanic services to the locals, this is a trusted company that can look after every aspect of your car.
Where: 3/7 Bosworth Street, Woolgoolga NSW 2456
