Vehicle Health Check
Everytime you visit any SMC dealer, you are entitled to a FREE Vehicle Health Check
Here is a sample of some of the more common items we find during the Visual Health Check process we undertake when your vehicle is in with us. To view an example please download the following - CLICK HERE TO DOWNLOAD
Tyres
Tyres will wear based on mileage, driving style and the type of use. Most new tyres will have 8mm of tread.
Red
The legal limit of tread on a tyre must be 1.6mm. The tyres will be at minimum of 3mm or below. Low tread levels can promote issues in vehicle control, cause extended braking distances and reduced water displacement. Tyres that are below the legal limit are subject to penalty points 3 per tyre and a fine £2500 per tyre.
Amber
The tyres checked will be 3 to 4mm. While the tyre will not require changing immediately, they potentially may not last until your next service. We will agree with you a date to return free inspection and report. This will prevent the tyre reaching the legal limit and the associated concerns.
Brake Pads
Brake Pads will wear dependent on use and mileage.
Red
The brake pads will have approximately 80% or more wear. This will reduce braking efficiency and can promote steering pull and vibration. There is also the possibility of damage to the brake discs.
Amber
The brake pads will be approximately 60% to 80% worn. While they will not need replacing immediately they may do prior to your next service. We will agree with you a date to return for a free inspection and a condition report. This will confirm that safety of the vehicle, prevent the potential for the pads excessively wearing and causing consequential damage.
Brake Discs
Brake discs will wear depending on use and mileage. They may also corrode or form a lip on the outer edges.
Red
The discs will be close to or below the manufacturers recommended thickness. Wev will provide a reading to support this. This is a critical safety related item and will affect the efficiency of the braking system. Excessively worn discs generate more heat which can promote premature issues with wheel bearings and ball joints.
Amber
The discs are showing signs of wear or they are starting to become lipped. While they are above the manufacturers recommended thickness, we will agree with you a date to bring your vehicle back for a free inspection and a condition report.
Brake Fluid
Brake fluid is the agent that ensures that the braking system works. The fluid will absorb moisture over a period of time and will become less effective. Most manufacturers will recommend as preventive maintenance that a brake fluid change is carried out every two years,
Red
During use the brake fluid has deteriorated and has built up a high moisture content. We will provide a reading to support this. Poor quality fluid will over time result in your braking system becoming less effective. Water laden fluid can promote corrosion and pitting to associated brake components.
We will also recommend a brake fluid change in line with the manufacturer’s suggest time recommendations.
Amber
The reading is not at a critical level but may require changing before you next service would be due. We will agree with you a date to bring your vehicle back for a free inspection and a condition report.
Note:
Research has shown that a motorist that covers in excess of 10,000 miles per year will use their brakes up to 75000 times.
(Source: AA1car.com)
Vehicle Health Check Enquiry
