THE DEUX-SÈVRES MONTHLY
Maintenance of your car.
by Mike Lane After living in the Deux-Sèvres for 6 years, I have been persuaded to start up a business primarily to help English speaking people to look after their vehicles. I had thought that after 35 years as a diesel mechanic in the UK and running my own business I would retire, but I admit that this new venture and working from home is proving to be enjoyable. If your command of the French language is, like mine, somewhat lacking it can be very difficult to explain to a French garage the problems you have. There are some simple steps you can take to help overcome some of the obvious (to some) problems that may arise. Check Oil Levels. Insufficient oil can cause severe engine damage. Too high an oil level can cause seals to blow, causing oil leaks. It can also cause turbo charger to blow oil into the cylinder bore and can cause bending of the connecting rods or con-rods. Connecting rods, con-rods are the components that are attached to the pistons and crankshaft and when they bend it is not possible to straighten them. You would then be looking at replacement of the engine or cylinder assembly.
NB. Please make sure that the dip stick is first wiped off clean using a clean paper towel, so that no oil is shown on the stick. Refit the dipstick into tube and make sure it is pushed firmly home. Remove dipstick and check oil level shown. Top up or drain as necessary. Power steering fluid - Noises found from power steering systems can be attributed to low power steering oil level causing air ingress in the power steering fluid. Whilst on the subject of levels:The most important level to check should be your brake fluid level. Don’t rely on your sensors on your dash. These levels should be checked at least once a week, visually. Check Water Levels. Low water levels can cause overheating and engine damage. Check tyre pressures. Low pressure can result in high fuel economy, bad road holding and rapid tyre wear. If you follow these simple steps it will help prevent what could be very serious problems.
So when topping up with oil, it is important to fill the correct level, which will be shown on the dipstick.
I am always available to discuss any problems you have...that can be anything mechanical. Cars, vans, small trucks or motor homes. Caravans, lawn mowers and other garden equipment. Mike Lane, Premier Autos. Tel: 05 49 32 23 50
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