Simple Car Care Tips for New London Drivers

Starting out as a new driver in London can feel overwhelming with busy streets, wet weather and potholes.

Don’t panic if you hear a squeak or see a warning light – simple checks can help keep your car running smoothly.

This friendly guide has easy tips on dashboard lights, tyres, oil and other basics so you can drive confidently in London.

Dashboard Warning Lights

Typical dashboard warning light symbols. Dashboard lights use traffic-light colours.

Green or blue means all is normal, Yellow/Orange means “check soon”, and red means stop safely and fix it. A red oil-can or battery icon means stop and have it checked right away.

If the battery light stays on, do not drive this can cause a breakdown.

Oil and Fluids

Think of engine oil as your car’s lifeblood. Check the oil level once a month. Open the bonnet and pull out the oil dipstick.

The oil should sit between the min and max marks and be a golden-brown colour. If the oil looks very dark or gritty, it needs changing.

Topping up low oil helps prevent engine damage. Also check coolant (antifreeze) and brake fluid – coolant keeps the engine from overheating or freezing.

In winter, top up antifreeze and keep an ice scraper in the car.

Potholes and Road Hazards

London is famous for potholes and rough roads. Councils filled roughly 847,000 potholes in London over the last decade, and UK roads have over a million each year.

Hitting a pothole can bend a wheel or damage suspension. To protect your car, slow down for rough patches and keep a good distance from the car ahead.

Properly inflated tyres help absorb the bump.

Quick Pre-drive Check

1. Before driving, do a quick walk-around check.
2. Make sure tyres look full and lights (headlights, sidelights, indicators, brake lights) work.
3. Look under the car for any fresh leaks. If you can, check oil, coolant and brake fluid levels.
4. Clean your windows and mirrors so you see clearly.

This quick check can catch small problems early – and most drivers skip it, so you’ll be ahead by doing it.

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