Watch out for these car components that need attention

The car has many components that need to be checked on a continuous basis to keep everything ready and avoid problems while driving. In other articles we have looked at the importance of tyres, the main breakdowns the car can suffer and the wear that occurs at certain points of the car in winter or summer. But we must always bear in mind some car components that are essential for driving safely, and which SERNAUTO wants to remind you of.

Timing kit

The timing belt is a great forgotten item in car servicing. It is usually hidden away, yet it is one of the most important parts of the vehicle. It is responsible for synchronising the rotation of the crankshaft with the camshaft. In other words, it controls the opening and closing of the engine valves at the right moment.

This belt wears out over time and can break at the most inconvenient moment. Normally, it usually gives warning signs when it is in poor condition, so pay attention to unusual noises and engine behaviour and have it checked if there is any sign of a problem. If it breaks while driving, the engine can be catastrophically damaged, and this is a fault that can leave the car off the road.

The timing belt has a lifespan of over 100,000 kilometres, although this figure can vary depending on several factors. When you approach 60,000 kilometres, it is advisable to start checking it and let the mechanic advise when it needs replacing. The timing kit is expensive, but far more expensive is having to rebuild the engine if the belt breaks while driving.

Headlights

The headlights are essential so that we can see and be seen by other vehicles. Proper headlight maintenance will give us better visibility. Cleaning and correcting any problem with the headlights is essential. It is also important to know that at a speed of 100 km/h the viewing angle is only 45º, which greatly reduces it. At night, visual perception is also reduced and many objects, obstacles and pedestrians are not visible until they are about 3 metres from the vehicle. So it is not enough to keep the headlights in good condition; you must also remember that visibility is not the same at night.

Brakes and shock absorbers

The brakes are also essential. In fact, faults in them are one of the main reasons cars fail the MOT inspection. That is why you must keep in mind how they work and whether the pads need replacing. You should also check the hoses carrying the brake fluid so that everything works properly.

The shock absorbers are also important for the brakes to perform their job. If they are in poor condition, they can increase braking distance by up to 35%. Safety matters, and it also depends on the good condition of the shock absorbers.

Wiper blades

The wiper blades are absolutely essential because they clear water from the windscreen when it rains or snows. Worn wiper blades can prevent the windscreen from being cleaned properly and reduce visibility. As soon as the blades start leaving streaks of water, they should be replaced so that the driver’s visibility is not reduced.

Engine filters

The engine filters ensure that the air entering the engine is clean. Depending on several factors, there may be a higher number of particles in the air, as in urban areas or industrial zones, so the filters must be checked to prevent dirt from entering the engine and damaging the various components that form part of it.

Spark plugs and glow plugs

In petrol cars, the spark plugs also lose efficiency over time. They should therefore be checked, and if there is any problem with combustion, such as misfiring or a loss of power at certain times, they should be inspected. It is a simple and inexpensive job and can prevent problems. In diesel cars, the glow plugs must be kept in good condition. Not only does this improve the car’s performance, it also reduces emissions of polluting particles.

These are just some of the components that need to be checked regularly to avoid more serious and costly breakdowns. With a little maintenance, we can save ourselves from scares and high costs.