Most of us have as little to do with the engine of our car as possible. If we do happen to open the bonnet, usually only done in error, we stand mystified by intestine-like wires, oil-splattered pipes and intimidating slabs of hot metal. Yet mounting garage bills and a lurking sense that "real drivers" know what actually happens at the business end means many of us are tempted to roll up our sleeves and get stuck in.
But the idea fills the AA's technical specialist, Vanessa Guyll, with alarm. "Modern cars are tricky," she says, "and these days, even changing a fan belt can be a two-man job. Then there's the issue of your car's warranty. You have to do everything according to the manufacturer's service schedule or it becomes invalid." Better take those overalls off...
However, there are several very easy and mostly free checks you can do yourself which "will prevent major damage, keep your car on the road for longer and save you some hefty garage bills".
Check the oil regularly using the dipstick. The moment the warning light flickers on, it's too late. Damage will have been done and you'll be facing a major engine repair. And, frankly, they don't really repair engines these days, so you'll be looking at installing a reconditioned or new engine.
Keep an eye on your coolant level. It's usually the orange liquid in a transparent container under the bonnet. Some cars have a dashboard indicator but many do not, so open the bonnet and have a look. No coolant, no cooling - and a burnt-out power unit. Again, you'll need a replacement engine.
Is your cooling fan working? Over 20mph there is enough fresh air coming through the front grille to keep the engine at the right temperature. But if you rarely get stuck in traffic, you'll only discover that your cooling fan has seized when it is too late. To check that it is in good working order, leave the car running outside your house until it reaches operating temperature. As the temperature rises above normal you'll hear the fan click on. If it doesn't, don't drive. You could over-heat the engine. And you know what that means... yes, another engine.
Are your tyres at the correct pressure? Deflated tyres will make your car less fuel-efficient. They will also puncture more easily and could cause you to lose control. Check your tyres when you have not driven for at least four hours as they need to be cool when tested.
Never miss a timing-belt change. Most cars need to have them replaced at about 60,000 miles, though obviously this varies from make to make. If the belt breaks, your engine will have to be replaced, but a new belt and the labour to fit it will only cost you around £200.
Annual saving: £3,500-£7,000
Cost of a replacement engine
