Keep your car clean; HERE Dave Roberts, general manager of Benfield's Nissan and Renault dealerships, offers advice on car maintenance and simple checks for the autumn

Evening Chronicle (Newcastle, England), Sept 12, 2008

DAVE says: "Keeping your car clean, both inside and out, is one of the simplest ways of spotting any problems early on.

"It is advisable to get both paint and windscreen chips looked at as soon as possible in order to prevent them from getting any worse ."

"Regular servicing of your vehicle is also essential to keep your car running in peak condition. Maintaining your servicing and filling in your logbook means you can preserve your car's value and nip any potential costly problems in the bud. Driving without the radio on regularly will enable you to hear any strange noises and detect problems.

"Recognising the sounds of the engine will also ensure that it remains in peak condition."

Dave adds: "Keep an eye on your tyre pressure levels and tread - it is both dangerous and illegal to drive on tyres that are worn or at the wrong pressure.

"The pressure is best checked on a flat surface when tyres are cold as hot tyres give false readings.

Your manual will be able to tell you the correct pressure levels.

"Even if the pressure and tread are ok, it is also worth checking the tyres by hand for any damage such as cuts or lumps caused by sharp objects.

"Always remember to check the spare tyre at the same time as this is vital in an emergency."

In order to get the best out of your car, it is also worth checking the engine's oil levels monthly.

Keeping it at the right level protects and extents the car's movable engine parts' life expectancy.

In order to check the car's oil, you need to do it on a flat surface when the engine is cold and your car's manual will tell you exactly how to do it.

What you get

WHAT are the benefits of Benfield Openroad?

Every Benfield Approved Used Car, has pounds 600 worth of benefits: At least 12 months warranty.

Experian vehicle history and mileage check.

12 months break down cover.

30 day/1,000 mile no-quibble exchange .

Accident management cover

Seven days free insurance.

CAPTION(S):

DO IT REGULARLY - maintaining your vehicle will help keep it in peak condition