Brake brand, Textar, is assisting garages with retaining customers and building loyalty by recommending additional checks take place when their vehicles are in the garage.

At this time of year many customer visit garages with tyre and suspension related queries. If work needs to be carried out, Textar recommends that mechanics offer further checks, including a diagnosis on the condition of brakes pads and disc wear. Offering this service guarantees customers are aware of mechanics going above and beyond to ensure their safety on the roads. This forms part of Textar’s spring check-up campaign.

The spring check-up campaign includes posters and a brochure which details 10 important tips for correct vehicle maintenance and preparation for the spring and summer following from the rigours of winter. The 16-page brochure will be available to download free of charge on the Textar website (www.textar.com), an overview of the 10 tips is below:

• 1. Check and, if necessary, replace lights – moisture and loose chippings can cause damage to headlights, taillights and turn signals or hazards
• 2. Check fluid levels and refill if necessary (motor oil, coolant, windshield wiper fluid)
• 3. Check brakes (brake pads, brake discs, brake fluid, seals and rubber parts)
• 4. Change tyres, including checking tread depth and tyre pressure (don’t forget to tighten up wheel bolts at 50-100 km)
• 5. Check and, if necessary, replace wiper blades – winter frost and ice may have damaged them
• 6. Check battery (check performance, as well as the contacts and acid level)
• 7. Inspect and, if necessary, replace exhaust pipe – the low winter temperatures can cause cracks in the pipe
• 8. Clean interior (windows, upholstery, footpads, dashboard and fixtures)
• 9. Go to a professional car wash to have the vehicle and its undercarriage cleared of salt and gravel
• 10. Check the paint – salt and grit may have scratched it over the winter

Nick Hayes, Sales Manager at TMD Friction, the company behind the Textar brand says, “The feedback we received regarding the spring check-up campaign last year was very positive. By advising that garages offer these additional checks during any wheel related maintenance means the customer receives peace of mind and gives the garage a reputation for putting the customer first.”