Expert car maintenance tips with Mark Noble

Your car relies on a range of fluids to keep everything running smoothly and safely — so regular checks are essential.

Let’s start with engine oil. Make sure your car is on level ground and the engine is cool. Pull out the dipstick, wipe it clean, then dip it back in and check the oil level. If it’s low, top it up with the correct oil, but don’t overfill.

Next, check your coolant. This keeps your engine from overheating. The coolant reservoir is usually a clear plastic tank under the bonnet. Make sure the level sits between the minimum and maximum marks. Never open the cap when the engine is hot, the system is pressurised.

Now, it’s time to check your brake fluid. It’s usually near the back of the engine. The level should also be between the marked lines. Low brake fluid can affect breaking, so top up if needed, but if it keeps dropping, get it checked.

Some cars also have power steering fluid, so check the level and top up if it’s low.

And don’t forget your washer fluid. Keeping your windscreen clear is vital, especially in bad weather.

These simple checks can help avoid big problems down the road.

Your car’s battery is really important. Without it, you’re going nowhere. So, knowing how to maintain it can save you a lot of hassle.

First, look out for signs of a weak battery — slow engine cranking, dim headlights, or dashboard warning lights. If you notice these, it’s best to see a qualified mechanic.

Next, check the battery terminals. Over time, corrosion can build up. Make sure the engine is off, then clean the terminals with a wire brush and a mix of baking powder and water. Ensure the connections are tight and secure.

And if you ever find yourself with a flat battery, you should know how to jump-start the car safely.

Position another car with a good battery close by, but not touching. Connect the red jump lead to the positive terminal on the flat battery, then to the positive terminal on the good battery. Next, connect the black lead to the negative terminal on the good battery, and attach the other end to an unpainted metal surface on the flat-battery car.

Start the car, let it run for a minute, then try starting the flat-battery car. Once it’s running, remove the leads in reverse order.

Finally, always get the battery checked with a fully qualified mechanic as soon as you can after.

Your tyres are the only part of your car that touches the road, so ensuring they’re in good condition is essential for your safety – no matter what fuel type your car is.

First, check your tyre pressure regularly. Under-inflated tyres can affect fuel economy and grip, while over-inflated ones can wear unevenly. Use a pressure gauge — you’ll usually find the recommended pressure inside the driver’s door or in your manual.

Next, check your tread depth. If the tread is worn below 1.6mm, it’s time to replace the tyre. You can use a tread depth gauge, or even a coin, to check.

And if you’re ever unlucky enough to get a flat tyre, you need to know how to change it safely.

First, make sure your car is parked on level ground, safely away from traffic, with the handbrake on.

Loosen the wheel nuts slightly before jacking up the car. Once it’s raised, remove the nuts fully and take off the flat tyre. Fit the spare tyre, tighten the nuts by hand, lower the car, then tighten fully in a criss-cross pattern.

And remember — a space-saver tyre is for emergencies only. Get it replaced as soon as possible.

Clear visibility and your car’s lights are key to safe driving in poor weather conditions or at night time, so make sure you know how to keep everything in tip top condition.

First, look at your wiper blades. If they’re streaking, squeaking, or leaving gaps, they’re worn out. Lift the wiper arm away from the windscreen and press the release tab to slide off the old blade. Line up the new one, click it into place, and gently lower the arm back down.

Next, check your lights. Walk around your car and test your headlights, tail lights, brake lights, and indicators. If a bulb’s out, it’s not just unsafe — it’s illegal.

To replace a headlight bulb, open the bonnet and locate the back of the headlight unit. If you need to, disconnect the wiring, remove the old bulb, and then slot in the new one. Make sure it’s secure, then connect the wiring. Tail lights and rear indicators are located inside the boot. To swap them, remove the panel, swap the bulb, and replace the cover.

Finally, check that all lights are working properly before you drive off.

A few minutes of maintenance is all that’s required to ensure you’re safe on the road, at all times.