Battery

If your battery has caps, remove them and check that the fluid inside is about 5mm above the plates, or between the levels as indicated on the battery case.

If low, top up with distilled water and avoid overfilling.   Replace the caps and make sure the electrical cables are tight on the battery terminals.   The top of the battery should be clean and dry. 

Note:  Your battery is potentially dangerous, so don’t check it near a naked flame or somebody who is smoking.   Batteries produce an explosive gas when they charge, and the fluid inside is corrosive, so avoid any contact with eyes, skin, clothing and painted surfaces.

Windscreen wipers and washer fluid:

Washer fluid – fill your washer bottle with clean water and the right amount of windscreen washer additive.   Don’t use household detergents as they can damage your paintwork and wiper blades.

Windscreen wipers – check the condition of your blades, and replace them if split, perished or not wiping your windscreen properly.