Automotive Advice You Can Use Today

Got a car that needs a bit of love? You’re in the right place. We’ve gathered the most common questions we hear at Northwich Tyres Centre and turned them into simple, step‑by‑step tips.

From air filters that keep the engine breathing clean to brake pads that stop you safely, each piece of advice is written for drivers who want fast results without a garage degree.

Everyday Maintenance Made Simple

Start with the basics: check your tyre pressure once a month and before long trips. Low pressure wears the tread faster and can hurt fuel economy. A quick press on the tyre sidewall tells you if you need air.

Next, look at your air filter. A cheap paper filter works fine for most drivers, but if you drive dusty roads or love a bit more power, a premium filter can help. Just pop the cover, pull the old filter out, and slide the new one in – no tools needed.

Wiper blades are another cheap fix. If you see streaks or miss spots, replace both blades at the same time. Measure the old blade length, buy the matching size, and snap the new one onto the arm.

Spark plugs are easy to overlook. When the engine idles rough or the fuel gauge jumps, it’s time to check them. Pull the plug wire, use a spark plug socket, and turn counter‑clockwise. If the tip looks fouled or the gap is off, replace it with the same spec.

Tackling Bigger Repairs

Brake pads wear out faster at the rear on many cars. If you hear a squeal or the pedal feels soft, it’s probably time to replace them. Remove the wheel, unbolt the caliper, swap the old pads for new, then bolt everything back. It’s a quick fix that saves you from costly brake jobs later.

Clutch problems can be tricky, but a burning smell is a clear sign. If the clutch slips or you can’t shift smoothly, you’ll need a replacement kit. While this job usually needs a mechanic, you can at least diagnose it by testing the pedal feel and listening for noises.Suspension issues show up as a rattling ride or uneven tyre wear. Bad shocks feel soft and cause the car to bounce. Check them by pushing the front corner down; if it rebounds too quickly, the shock is worn.

Fuel pump woes often start with a hard start or occasional stall. You can test the pump’s pressure with a simple gauge you can buy at any auto parts store. If the reading is low, it’s time to call a pro.

Overall, the best defence is regular checks. Give each part a quick look every few weeks and note any changes. A small amount of time now prevents a big bill later.

Need help with any of these jobs? Swing by Northwich Tyres Centre. We stock the parts you need and can fit tyres, brakes and more on the spot. Keep your car happy and safe – it’s worth the effort.