Driving after lockdown

• Brakes – If your handbrake/parking brake hasn’t been released since you last drove, it may stay locked when you first release it. Drive off gently and it should free itself, though you might hear a loud clunk from one of the wheels. Apply the brakes when you first drive off too. They may sound noisy if rust has built up on the discs, but this should clear after you use them a few times.

• Tyres – If you’ve not been keeping them inflated to the correct pressure while off the road, check the pressure and inflate accordingly.

• Fluids – Check all fluid levels, including brake fluid, coolant, engine oil, power steering fluid and screen wash before starting the engine.

• MOT – You shouldn’t take your car to get its MOT if you or someone you live with has coronavirus symptoms or have been told by NHS Test and Trace you’ve been in contact with someone who has coronavirus.

• Vehicle tax – Check your car is taxed or you could face a fine of up to £1,000. If you have declared it as being off the road by getting a Sorn (statutory off-road notification), you will need to renew your vehicle tax.

• Check nothing’s living under the bonnet – Before starting your car, pop the bonnet and make sure that nothing has nested in your engine and/or chewed through any pipes or hoses.

Remember a poorly maintained vehicle is a breakdown waiting to happen. Come to the experts at Worcester's Mobile Mechanic.

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