Give your car some TLC during lockdown with these handy tips for at-home repairs
CAN’T get your motor to a garage right now?
If your car needs some TLC, there are plenty of at-home repairs you can do. Just leave certain fixes to the pros.
The experts at let me in on these handy tips . . .
FLAT TYRE: Often you can sort this with the spare in your car. But if the flat is caused by a puncture, do a temporary fix with tyre sealant. Keep a can of this in your spare-tyre well to patch up the regular tyre, then inflate it and you can be on your way.
Then get the car safely to your local mechanic for further repair, or replacement. Holts Tyreweld Emergency Puncture Repair is £5.49 on eBay — while it is £10 at .
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WINDSCREEN WIPERS: We are told to replace these every six months — and you don’t need a mechanic. Changing them differs between models, so follow the steps in your owner’s manual.
Generally, lift and gently remove the old blades, noting how they connect to the metal arms. Most models have a tab on the underside of the wiper, which you push to release the old blade. Then carefully secure the new ones. Check out half-price deals at , plus free standard delivery.
SAVING: 50 per cent
HEADLIGHTS: Bulbs are easy to replace yourself. Keep a spare pack in your glove box. Check the owner’s manual for specific instructions but, generally, open your hood and, from the back of the lamp, remove the rubber boot protecting the headlight.
Unplug the wire harness and release the clip holding the bulb in place. Don’t touch the glass of the new bulb, as oil from your hand can cause it to burn out early.
Find compatible bulbs at .
BUT BEWARE A FEW THINGS: Please don’t touch anything to do with the transmission or the suspension, the timing belts and the airbags. Messing about with these could cost you a lot more later.
- PRICES correct at time of going to press. Deals and offers subject to availability.
Deal of the day
IT’S the last day of Dyson’s spring sale. Prices go back Tuesday. The V7 Motorhead Plus is £199.99, normally £274.99. See .
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Cheap treat
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Take out at home
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Reader's saving tip
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Shop and save
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