Servicing your vehicle not only keeps it running smoothly, but it also makes it safer to drive by reducing the risk of malfunctions causing preventable accidents.

And while regular servicing by qualified mechanics is essential for the long-term health of your car, there’s also plenty you can do yourself to increase safety between service appointments. Here are five of the most important maintenance tips to follow.

1) Check the Battery

Modern vehicles are highly computerized, and a loss of electrical power can mean a lot more than a failure to start. Battery problems can impact braking systems, power steering, lights, and much more, potentially causing serious dangers if the power fails mid-drive.

Regularly check your battery for visible signs of impending failure, such as bulging, discoloration, or corrosion, and also consider checking the charge level from time to time. It’s wise to arrange an inspection and possible replacement at the first sign of trouble, before sudden power loss becomes a real risk.

2) Tire Wear and Tear

Tires with worn treads present clear safety issues when their reduced grip impairs handling, so it’s important to keep an eye open for any balding that appears. However, it’s also a good idea to check for bulges, cracks, and other developing defects every month or so, so they can be repaired before a potential high-speed blowout puts you and your vehicle at risk.

But even if your tires are in perfect shape, it’s vital to keep them inflated to the correct pressure at all times, as this keeps handling reliable and ensures you have the grip you need in an emergency.

3) Brake System

A full brakes safety check should be part of a regular service schedule, but between appointments, try to be aware of any changes in braking behaviour. If the car suddenly feels sluggish when stopping or shows a spongy response to the pedal, it’s sensible to arrange an inspection to get to the source of the problem.

And if you know your way about under the hood, then monitoring brake fluid levels and topping up when necessary will add another layer of protection to this vital system.

4) Windshield and Visibility

Don’t ignore any cracks or chips which appear in your windshield, or the glass could suddenly shatter while you’re driving at highway speeds. Most minor issues can be repaired quickly and easily rather than needing a costly windshield replacement, so take action as soon as possible.

Also, make sure that your windshield wipers are up to the task of clearing the glass without leaving smears or debris behind. Even small reductions in visibility can make accidents more likely, so a simple wiper blade replacement should be done at the first sign of wear.

And as a last windshield safety measure, get into the habit of checking your washer reservoir water levels and topping up as needed so that you’re not left with a dirty windshield while out on the road.

5) External Lights

Lastly, regularly check that your car’s headlights, tail lights, brake lights, and turn indicators are all working reliably. It will only take a minute or two for a visual check, but it could pay huge dividends if you spot a faulty light before it puts you in any danger. Remember, properly working lights not only make it possible to see where you’re going but also ensure other road users can see you.

All of these tasks are easy for an amateur to handle, but for a full set of safety checks, there’s no substitute for a thorough service carried out by an expert auto mechanic. Use the button below to book your next service appointment, and ensure your vehicle stays running both safely and smoothly.