19 June 2024 , 15:43
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While we're all trying to tighten our belts and cut back on expenses - driving is still one of the most costly day-to-day activities you can do.
People could save a whopping £2,451.73 just by keeping your motor spick and span at home, according to new figures. Sounds like a lot of money, doesn't it? Well, here's the lowdown.
The car experts at Hippo Leasing have shared their four golden rules to follow, reports the Express. It seems motorists often overlook that a grubby car can lead to fines, so it's no surprise drivers are getting stung for simple slip-ups.
Windscreen
Motorists, beware! You could be slapped with a £1,000 fine if you don't keep your windscreen clean. According to Annex 6 Vehicle Maintenance, Safety and Security of the Highway Code: "Windscreens and windows MUST be kept clean and free from obstructions to vision". So, it's crucial to stay on top of cleaning your windscreen or you could be hit with a hefty £1,000 fine for not having a clear view of the road or traffic ahead.
The simplest way for drivers to keep their windscreens clear is to make sure their screenwash is always topped up.
Drivers warned of Highway Code changes that could land them with £200 fine
Number plate
Can you see your number plate clearly? If you're not certain, better check, or you could be facing a £1,000 fine. Before hitting the road, drivers should always ensure that their number plate is visible.
Your plate needs to be readable by speed cameras or police checks. Driving on muddy roads can result in splatters of dirt covering licence plates, which can quickly accumulate over time.
Rust
If cars aren't cleaned regularly, they can start to rust - costing £361.73 in repairs. Neglecting to clean your car regularly can leave it susceptible to rust and corrosion, thanks to the abrasive nature of dirt and grime. Over time, this can wear down the car's clear coat.
Once the clear coat is compromised, rusting can occur. On average, rust repair treatments in the UK cost around £361.73. However, this expense can be avoided if drivers maintain a regular car cleaning routine. Scratches caused by dust particles could set you back a hefty £90 to fix.
Did you know that dust can cause scratches on your car?
This is because these tiny dust particles are abrasive and can leave small scratch marks over the car when swept across the paintwork. Regularly cleaning your car can easily buff out some scratches. However, others may not be as easy to remove if there's a large amount of dust accumulated on your vehicle.
In the UK, the average cost for a light surface scratch repair is £90.