Britain’s largest online used car retailer has lots of advice to make driving in 2010 cheaper and more enjoyable.Drivers can save money and stay safe on the roads with Autoquake.com’s New Year Resolutions.
“These aren’t the usual ‘lose weight’ or ‘join the gym’ promises,” said Autoquake.com’s Founder, Fredrik Skantze. “These resolutions will save you money, keep you safe, or just make the roads a nicer place in 2010.”
Take an advanced driving course
Everyone likes to think they’re a great driver, but the truth is we could all do better. An advanced driving course – or even just one lesson – will help smooth off the rough edges and bad habits we all develop after a few years on the road. You’ll be a better, safer, more confident driver.
Check your car’s oil level
Engines need oil. Let the level run too low and you could cause hundreds or even thousands of pounds of damage to your engine. Check the oil level once a week. It only takes a few moments and it’s easy to do. With the engine cold and the car parked on level ground, pull out the dipstick, wipe it clean, then replace it. Remove it again and check that the oil is between the minimum and maximum marks on the dipstick. Top up the level if necessary without over-filling.
Drive more economically
Learn to drive more efficiently and you could slash your fuel bills. Obey the speed limit, don’t rev the engine hard and change gear a little earlier. Anticipate traffic and leave more of a gap to the car in front to keep accelerating and braking to a minimum. Recent research by What Car? has shown that following this advice reduces fuel consumption by an average of 21%. That’s enough to knock £344 off a typical annual fuel bill.
Get your car serviced on time
If money is tight, it’s tempting to put off the car’s next service. Don’t. Cars need some regular TLC to keep them working properly, and saving a little money now could cost you dear in the long run. What’s more, a car with a full service history will be worth more when the time comes to sell it on.
Check your tyres
Don’t take the condition of your tyres for granted. Check the tyres pressures once a week. A properly inflated tyre will last longer, grip better and make your car more economical. Keep an eye on the tread depth, too. There should be at least 1.6mm of tread across the middle 75% of the tyre. Go below this minimum standard and you can expect reduced grip and greater stopping distances in wet weather. Oh, and if you get caught the fine may be up to £2500 per tyre.
Let other drivers out into traffic
Make it your resolution to let at least one driver out into traffic each day. If someone does the same to you, don’t forget to thank them. Do this if you drive an Audi or BMW, and enjoy the look of surprise on the other driver’s face.
Let me wish you all a Very Happy and Safe New Year!