Did you know that the Driver and Vehicle Licensing Agency (DVLA) list around 17 million drivers who are victims to road rage? That is around 38% of all drivers in the UK. Further, The Fuel card Company conducted a research where they found the following activities UK citizens performed while driving:
Although these habits do not necessarily cause any damage to vehicles, they may lead to one. Further, it may become troublesome for you to pass the MOT with a car which is simply not up to the mark.You may not be able to change these habits of other drivers. But, you can change some of yours that are secretly damaging your vehicle other than throwing open an avenue for mishaps. Driving habits which are gnawing your car
You may think that resting your foot gently on the clutch pedal may not de-press it. However, it is just the opposite. De-pressing the clutch pedal even slightly causes the clutch disc to engage unnecessarily. This happens because the release bearing continues to stay in contact with the pressure plate. What you get in return is more than usual clutch wear.So, starting today, take your foot off the clutch pedal when you’re not using it. You will find your clutch assembly lasting longer.
It is true that driving in higher gears lowers your fuel consumption. But, doing so in low speeds can lead you to spend even more in maintenance.Typically known as “lugging,” driving in low speeds at high gears will wear the cylinder heads out. The opposite – racing or redlining your engine in lower gears will also have similar consequences.
As mentioned above, driving too close to other vehicles is one of the bad driving habits of the UK citizens. If you are doing so, then you are also braking too frequently, which will eventually lead to worn-out brake pads. Thus, keep some distance while driving. Worn-out brake pads require replacements and you will have to go for a brake repair in Northampton.
Warming up your car before you drive off is a good practice. Letting your engine run for just 10 seconds is enough to circulate the lubricating oil throughout the system. This simple but essential habit keeps your engine healthy on the longer run.
Even though your car comes with various filters that keep dust and debris away from the mechanical components, some still manage to get in. Driving low on fuel can cause these particles accumulated at the bottom of your tank to invade the fuel pump, damage it, and lead to malfunctions.
Therefore, you will end up paying more on repairs which you could have avoided simply by refuelling in time.
Avoid these driving habits, and you will keep your car easily healthy enough to pass your MOT in Northampton. For a pre-MOT check as well as the test, you can bring your car over to professional garages like Jackson's MOT Centre. They can assist you with repairs and replacements for your car’s exhaust, brakes, clutch, among other services.