Service

To keep your car safe and performing at its best, it’s vital that you have it serviced regularly at a Ford Dealer.

 However, in between services, there are a few things you can do yourself to help maintain your vehicle. Here are some simple checks to make on a regular basis.

Tyres

• Be aware of the correct tyre pressure and check your tyres at least every two weeks, using a good-quality gauge or garage air line.

• Look for cuts on side walls. If a tyre needs regular top-ups, it may have a slow puncture.

• Don’t forget to check your spare tyre as well.

Tool Kit

• Check your owner’s manual for information on where to find the basic tool kit. It should contain at least a jack and wheel removal tools.

• Familiarise yourself with the jacking points used to lift the car safely.

• If locking wheel nuts are fitted, make sure the tool kit includes the key or removal tool.

• If your vehicle does not carry a spare tyre, check the owner’s manual to find the tyre inflation kit.

Engine Oil

• Check the dipstick at least every two weeks and before long journeys.

• Have the oil and filter changed at the recommended service intervals, using the recommended oil for your vehicle. You can find this information in your owner’s manual.

• High oil consumption can indicate engine problems.

Water

• Check the coolant level regularly and top up as necessary – but only when the engine is cold.

• Have the antifreeze concentration checked before winter.

• Antifreeze not only prevents the coolant from freezing, it also prevents corrosion within the cooling system and so is important all year round.

Wipers

• Wiper blades wear down over time and smear the windscreen.

• Replace them at least once a year for maximum performance.

Screen Wash

• Check and top up regularly – under legal regulations, your system must work.

• Use a good screen wash additive throughout summer and winter - water alone won’t remove oily road grime and freezes more readily in winter.

Windscreen 

• Inspect your screen regularly for stone damage and always replace a cracked or chipped screen as soon as possible.

• Damage may impair vision or distract your attention.

• Minor chips can spread and crack the glass.

Lights

• Check all your lights once a week. Don’t forget indicators, brake and fog lights.

• Clean lights regularly. In bad weather, wipe them with a damp cloth.

Power Steering

• Check the fluid reservoir once a month.

• Top up using the appropriate hydraulic fluid only, as advised in your owner's manual.

Bodywork

• Repair damage to bodywork as soon as possible to prevent rust setting in.

• Your vehicle may have extended bodywork warranty schemes, which require an annual Dealer inspection. Check that the previous owner has kept records up to date.