Looking After Your Car

Most motorists don't like paying more than they need to for car insurance, so understandably they want to avoid risking their no-claim bonus. One way you can help reduce your risks of an accident is by keeping your car in the best condition possible.

In fact, keeping your car in good condition isn't just important from a car insurance point of view. There's not much that's of less use than a broken-down car! So here are a few things that may be worth thinking about.

The elements

British winters can be notoriously harsh on our motor vehicles. If it's at all possible, getting your car into a garage overnight can help keep some of the worst frosts and damp off it. It may also help keep it secure from thieves and vandals.

Keep it maintained and serviced

Keeping your car in tip-top mechanical condition will help keep it safe and reliable. It will also help it retain a higher residual value for re-sale.

Be aware of your own limitations! Although the servicing costs of a professional garage may be expensive, with modern high-tech cars you may be very limited in terms of what you can do yourself with a spanner set and screw driver.

Regularly check your tyres and brakes

Most pilots will check their aircraft thoroughly before every single flight - this often includes a walk-around and personal inspection of things such as tyres. Worn or incorrectly inflated tyres are a major cause of accidents and inspecting them regularly is important.

Remember also to check your brakes at the start of every trip, particularly if the conditions are damp. Do this at low speeds before you need to use them at 70mph on the motorway.

Think security

There's no point having a vehicle you're proud of, if it's in the possession of a thief. Even if the vehicle is recovered, there is a good chance it will be damaged or vandalised. Fit security devices and use them!

Drive conservatively

However much you regret your decision not to go into F1 racing, the reality of life is that our roads are just not safe to be used as racetracks or a forum for you to show-off your extreme driving skills. If you drive aggressively you are at much higher risk of accidents resulting in damage to your car and possibly injury to others.

If you follow some of the above tips you may find your car lasts longer, stays in better condition and you'll avoid accidents. This will be good for the value of your car and help keep your car insurance premiums down by retaining your no-claims bonus.