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Reduce the risk of breakdown on your spring break

19th May 2011 Print

As millions of motorists take to the UK’s roads for a spring holiday break, Chevron Lubricants, one of the worlds the leading producers of vehicle lubricants, is advising motorists to undertake the necessary vehicle maintenance before setting out, in order to reduce the risk of breakdown or an accident.
 
One critical check is to ensure that the oil is topped up to the level recommended by the vehicle manufacturer. Research conducted by CCB FastMAP in May 2009 on behalf of Chevron Lubricants for its Texaco Havoline brand, revealed that 60% of motorists either never reach for their dipstick between service intervals, or only choose to look under the bonnet at irregular intervals which is insufficient to make sure that the vehicle is fully fit for purpose. This means that many are causing excessive damage to their engines. For those that do go to top-up, only a worrying 39% of motorists know the correct specification of their engine oil.
 
Chevron Lubricants therefore has the following top tips for drivers before leaving home this spring:

Check oil levels before and after a long journey.

Check oil levels when the engine is cold and make sure the car is on level ground.

Check the oil level on the dipstick, topping up if necessary (the oil level should not be below the marker on the dipstick – refer to the Owner’s Manual).

Look for signs of oil leaks on the ground underneath the car. If there are leaks get your car checked before you leave.

Change the oil and filter at recommended intervals to reduce engine wear and the possibility of internal damage (check the vehicle’s Owner’s Manual for recommended intervals).
 
Ensure you know the correct replacement oil before departing and carry a spare bottle with you.
 
Brian Hayes marketing manager of Chevron Lubricants says: “It is important that people take the time to undertake the necessary checks before they leave, otherwise they may spend even more time at the side of the road, which will only delay their summer getaway. Oil levels should be checked regularly, but because lubricants are often a distress purchase, many choose to ignore it and keep their fingers crossed that they will arrive at their destination without incurring any problems. It doesn’t take long to check the fluid levels under the bonnet, and this could make all the difference.”
 
For more information on Chevron Lubricants, and choosing the right oil, visit havoline.com.