Learning to drive for the first time is an exhilarating milestone, but driving only represents half the story. New drivers are often left in the dark when it comes to car service, maintenance, and MOT. Overlooking these matters can result in break-downs, costly repairs, or a test of law failure. To keep you on your toes, this handbook outlines basic car care that new drivers should know.
Learning Basic Car Care
The one thing more costly than having an automobile is to lose one. Maintenance of your car keeps the car in tip-top shape and avoids repair costs in the future.
Things That New Drivers Have Forgotten
New drivers have forgotten simple, yet important car care measures such as:
- Tire pressure and tread check – Decreased tire pressure lowers fuel economy as well as handling, and thin tread for reduced traction.
- Oil and coolant inspection – Low engine oil will do extreme harm, and the absence of coolant results in overheating.
- Windshield wiper replacement – Clear vision is what road safety depends on, particularly in inclement weather.
- Brake pad maintenance – Dull brake pads result in longer stopping distances and safety compromises.
- Get a Handle on Your Car’s Well-being – Regular servicing will cost itself and keep you on the move.
Learning to drive in the UK, it is a good idea to make it a habit to check the following essentials regularly.
The Advantages of Regular Servicing
If your car is well maintained, regular servicing prevents breakdowns and extends its life by many years.
Types of Car Servicing
Servicing a car is not one-size-fits-all. Check the facts:
- Interim service – Every 6 months or 6,000 miles, covering vital checks including oil, filters, and brakes.
- Full service – Yearly or every 12,000 miles, comprehensive check-up.
- Major service – Every 24,000 miles, everything is included in a full service plus other checks and replacement of parts.
- Stay One Step Ahead of Expensive Repairs – Booking regularly keeps small issues from becoming big ones.
If you want an automatic driving lesson or have recently passed your test, it is important to keep up with service appointments.
MOT: What Every New Driver Should Know
The MOT test is compulsory for UK vehicles aged more than three years. You are not permitted to lawfully drive an MOT-failed car until it is made safe.
Typical MOT Failures
- Faulty lights – All the headlights, brake lights, and indicators need to be in good condition.
- Worn tires – Minimum tread depth that is legally permissible is 1.6mm; anything less will make you fail.
- High emissions – A faulty exhaust or engine could cause a failed test.
- Brakes – Second-rate brakes are dangerous on the road and a leading cause of MOT failure.
- Pass Your MOT with Confidence – An MOT preparation reduces retests and failed tests.
Understanding MOT basics might make you a more discerning driver if considering an intensive automatic driving lesson.
Dealing with Breakdowns: What to Do When Things Fail
Despite routine maintenance, something will sometimes go wrong. Being aware of what to do during a breakdown situation may be the difference between an awful experience and a lovely afternoon.
What to Do in Case of a Breakdown
- Stay calm and slow down – Drive onto the roadside and switch on hazard lights.
- Use warning triangles – Wherever possible, employ warning triangles behind your car to warn other motorists.
- Call for help – In case you can’t repair it yourself, call the roadside assistance service.
- Simple troubleshooting – There are some problems, such as a flat battery, which you can repair by jump-starting.
- Be Prepared for the Unexpected – No one has car trouble, but prepare and you’ll be less stressed. If you’re taking an aggressive fast pass intensive driving course, take a little time and learn some basic troubleshooting skills.
Final Thoughts: Becoming a Responsible Car Owner
Driving isn’t just about passing your test—it’s about taking care of your vehicle and staying safe on the road. By learning the basics of maintenance, servicing, and MOTs, you’ll avoid costly mistakes and drive with confidence.
Drive Smart & Stay Safe – Car care awareness and driving proficiency. In an advanced drive school on a fast track intensive driving course or if concerned with a tire blowout, be concerned with car maintenance for uninterrupted driving.