SELF-MADE CAR CHECK

After weeks of salt attacks, grit and dirt, the car is really longing for a spring fitness cure. A thorough cleaning and a functional check will do it good. The TÜFA-TEAM reveals where you can lend a hand.

Salt and rust: Salt is a nasty rust producer. Unfortunately, the thickest salt crusts are inaccessible to car washes. The floor assembly, the wheel arches, but also the folds of the doors and trunk are covered in them. The only option is to do it yourself and rinse these areas with plenty of water. Caution: Dirt and salt can also accumulate in the engine compartment. Only those who are familiar with the moisture-sensitive engine parts and suitable cleaning agents should clean here themselves. If in doubt, it is better to leave this “problem area” to a specialist, according to the advice of Tatjana Trömner-Gelbe from the TÜFA-TEAM.

Battery and starter: If the engine no longer wants to start reliably, the battery may no longer be fit. Low temperatures plus an ageing battery or poorly maintained ignition system: With this combination, it’s no wonder that the energy levels drop.

Lighting: Are all headlights and lamps burning brightly and evenly? If not, the bulbs may need to be replaced.

Perhaps there is also dirt in the housing, a cable connection is corroded or a headlight reflector has “gone blind”. If the light output decreases when the engine is idling, this may be due to a weak battery or alternator. When checking the lights, it is also best to check whether the lamp lenses have been damaged by splinters.

Windows and mirrors: Not only should the windows be checked, the wing mirrors may also have been damaged by contact with grit. The cold also attacks the wiper blades of the windshield wipers. If the wipers are causing streaks instead of a clear view, the only solution is to replace them.