Whether you're keeping your car road-ready with a few simple maintenance checks or making sure you have the right car insurance in place, looking after your car is about more than appearances. In fact, some of the areas that need regular attention aren’t about keeping your car looking its best, keeping it clean can help you maintain good visibility and make sure your car remains visible to other road users.
So, while you may have to leave the hosepipe in the shed during the hotter weather, here are six simple car checks worth keeping on top of regardless.
- Keep your windscreen clear
A windscreen covered in dust, dirt or grime can affect visibility, particularly when sunlight hits the glass or when driving at night. Drivers should ensure their windscreen is clean both inside and out and make sure their windscreen washer fluid is topped up. - Check your mirrors
Side and rear-view mirrors should be kept clean and correctly positioned so drivers have the clearest possible view of surrounding traffic. A quick wipe with a damp cloth can be enough to remove accumulated dirt without requiring large quantities of water. - Don't let your lights become obscured
Headlights, brake lights, indicators and rear lights all play an important role in helping motorists see and be seen. Dirt and grime can build up particularly quickly on the rear of a vehicle, so drivers should check that all lights are clean and clearly visible. - Keep your number plate readable
Number plates need to remain clearly visible and legible. A quick clean with a bucket and sponge can remove dirt without the need to use a hosepipe. - Check your tyres
The water restrictions are also a reminder not to focus exclusively on the exterior appearance of a vehicle. Drivers should regularly check their tyre pressures and make sure there is sufficient tread, particularly before setting off on longer summer journeys. - Don't forget your wipers
Summer dust, pollen and grime can accumulate on windscreens, putting more pressure on windscreen wipers when they're eventually used. Drivers should check that their wipers are clearing the glass properly and replace them if they are leaving streaks or failing to clear the windscreen effectively.
How to wash your car without a hosepipe:
There are several simple ways you can continue looking after your vehicle when a hosepipe ban is in place.
- Use a bucket: A bucket and sponge can provide a simple alternative to running a hosepipe continuously.
- Try a waterless wash: Waterless and low-water cleaning products can be useful for keeping vehicles looking clean between more thorough washes.
- Spot-clean regularly: Drivers don't necessarily need to clean their entire vehicle every time. Paying particular attention to windscreens, mirrors, lights and number plates can help keep the areas that matter most clean.
- Visit a commercial car wash: Commercial operators are exempt from the domestic hosepipe restriction, making them another option for motorists.
And be sure not to leave the tap running. Even when washing by hand, drivers should avoid leaving water running unnecessarily and only use what they need.
A hosepipe ban may mean putting the hosepipe away for a while, but it's no reason to put vehicle maintenance on hold. Whether you're heading off on a road trip or simply commuting around town, taking a few minutes to check that you can see and be seen is time well spent. And while keeping your car in good condition is important, having the right cover matters too. At OUTsurance, we're here to help Irish drivers get more from their car insurance.