Car Care
Clean a Heated Rear Window Without Scraping Its Fine Lines
Clean the inside of a heated rear window gently, identify vulnerable demister lines, and avoid turning a sticker-removal job into an electrical repair.
NOTES FROM THE GARAGE
Journal
Everyday Car Safety
Adjust the Head Restraint Before You Set Off
Set the seat and head restraint together before driving. Check height, distance and the vehicle manual rather than treating the restraint as a cushion.
Car Care and Driving
Fog Lights Need Their Own Visibility Decision
Find the fog-light controls while parked, then use them according to visibility and local road rules rather than leaving them on by habit.
Car Care Basics
Check Engine Oil by the Method in Your Car Manual
Use your vehicle’s own instructions for an engine-oil check, including the measurement method, waiting time and correct oil specification.
Everyday Car Checks
Give the Driver’s Floor Mat a Pedal-Clearance Check
Check that the driver’s floor mat fits the vehicle, stays secured and cannot interfere with pedals before replacing or repositioning it.
Car Features
Rear-Door Child Locks Change How a Passenger Gets Out
Locate and check your car’s rear-door child locks while parked, and explain the exit arrangement to passengers before setting off.
Driving Practicalities
The Small Arrow Beside the Fuel Symbol Can Save a Lap of the Forecourt
Many dashboards show an arrow identifying the fuel-filler side. Check your vehicle’s symbol while parked and distinguish it from information about fuel type.
Car Maintenance
Your Car’s Cabin Filter and Engine Air Filter Have Different Jobs
Identify which air filter a workshop means and check the correct part, service interval and airflow instructions for your vehicle.
Tyre Care
Tyre Rotation Depends on the Car and the Tyres Together
Check tyre direction, front and rear sizes, and the vehicle manual before assuming a standard rotation pattern fits your car.