A little low cost car maintenance goes a long way

Autumn has officially begun, and although car maintenance might not be at the top of everyone's list of things to do, it's surprising how a little bit of care and maintenance now will save time, money, unnecessary breakdowns and even accidents as winter draws near.

"A well maintained and properly cared for vehicle not only increases its safety, but also makes it more economical to run," says RIAS Managing Director Janet Connor. "Minor jobs like checking fluids, tyre pressure and condition, and replacing worn small parts like windscreen wipers, can really help prevent major issues later on: after all, steering clear of potential problems in the short term has to be better than making an avoidable claim, risking your no claims bonus, and increasing the cost of your premium in the long term."

RIAS advises the following checks for keeping your car in tip top condition this autumn and winter:

Check the anti-freeze strength and try to change the coolant and anti-freeze every two years

Use a good quality anti-freeze, even the best only costs a few pounds. Use a 50-50 mix of anti-freeze and water in the cooling system for winter (check your owner's manual) to avoid severe engine damage costing hundreds of pounds to repair

Lights, heaters and windscreen wipers all put high demands on your car battery - when starting the car, make sure these non-essentials are turned off until the engine is running. And remember, batteries rarely last longer than five years, so check the condition of yours and replace if necessary

Check all tyres for condition, pressure and tread depth. Don't be tempted to reduce pressure to increase grip, this is dangerous and affects breaking capacity

Make sure you have a maintenance kit ready - including jack and wheel brace. Consider including a warning triangle in the kit plus spare engine oil, water, spare fuses and bulbs. Check the condition of your spare wheel/tyre

Check all lights and indicators are working and clean

Keep the windscreen, mirrors and windows clean - and make sure screen wash reservoirs are kept topped up

Replace worn windscreen wipers

Performing these simple, low cost maintenance tasks should help keep your car safely on the road through the winter months.