To keep your car safe and performing at its best, it's vital that you have it serviced regularly at a Ford Dealer / Authorised Repairer.
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.
For further advise please consult your owner's manual. If you have lost your original owner's manual, you can buy a new one here.
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. Make use of the tyre repair kit offered by your Ford Dealer/Authorised Repairer.
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 that 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.
Check the dipstick at least every two weeks and before long journeys. Have the oil and filter changed at the recommended service intervals. High oil consumption can indicate engine problems.
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.
Wiper blades wear down over time and smear the windscreen. Replace them at least once a year for maximum performance.
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.
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. A lot of cracks can be repaired by your Ford Dealer/ Authorised Repairer.
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 when the vehicle is stationary.
Check the fluid reservoir once a month. Top up using the appropriate hydraulic fluid only, as advised in your owner's manual – available at your Ford Dealer/ Authorised Repairer.
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.