Post-holiday 4x4 checkup

As the holidays draw to a close for many of you, it's time to pamper your 4x4 with a thorough check-up. 
You may have clocked up some high mileage travels through different climates so you need to inspect your 4x4 properly to ensure your safety and peace of mind.

This simple operation will only take you an hour. All you need is some basic equipment: an oil filter wrench, an oil catch pan and of course a new drain plug gasket.

Oil changes are generally recommended every 10,000 to 30,000 km, according to the manufacturer's recommendations.

For the more novice among you, changing the oil involves replacing the oil intended to lubricate the inside of the engine. Over time your engine oil degrades and loses its capacity to lubricate correctly. It is also recommended that you change the oil filter at the same time as you do this.

A DIY oil change will save you time and money (no more trips back and forth to the garage of labour costs). All you need to buy is the oil, a new oil filter and a drain plug gasket if necessary.

You should also take this opportunity to check and replace your air filter, the fuel filter and the cabin filter if necessary.

Check-out our articles:

VIDEO - DIY Grand Cherokee oil change

DIY servicing - Oil change

DIY Oil change tutorial

Air filter replacement

Fuel filter replacement

Let your engine breathe!

Cabin filter replacement

Petrol filters

Filter kits

Depending on how you use your 4x4, your brake pads need to be inspected every 20000 - 25000 km.

You can give them a quick visual check by simply removing a wheel. If in doubt you should take them out to measure. The best way to check is to measure their thickness and compare them to the manufacturer's recommendation. 

Check-out our articles:

How to improve your brakes

If you been out and about on and off-road this summer then it's time to check their pressure and any signs of wear.

Perhaps it's time to treat you and your 4x4 to a new set of tyres?

Check-out our range of tyres:

Black-Star tyres

Our range of tyre gauges and accessories:

Drive at the right pressure!

A wiper blade has a lifespan of approximately 500,000 cycles (according to manufacturers), which corresponds to about one year of use.

This time takes into account not only the wiper motion cycle but also the annual temperature differences which also weaken the blades.

Check out our articles:

Windscreen wiper replacement

Why grease? Prop-shafts must be greased regularly and especially following intensive offroading. The grease prevents the UJ's (universal joints) and sliders from running dry. Damp and dirt can work their way in over time and lead to premature wear.

So don't forget to grease!

Check out our tutorial:

Greasing the propeller shaft

K2 offers a vast range of automotive products.

From car care products, air fresheners, fluids, additives for oils and fuels, adhesives & silicones to high-quality repair products. As well as dedicated professional products for workshops, paint stores and car washing.

This wide range can be found on our site on the "K2 - Car-care products and additives" page.

Our range of products:

K2 Car-care products

Take the time to simply check that all the fluid levels are correct:
Brake fluid, coolant, power steering, screenwash,...

Our range of products :

Brake fluid

To help you look after your 4x4 we offer a range of tools and equipment to kit out your workshop:

Workshop tools

Please note: Euro4x4Parts publishes this information to help its customers but cannot be held responsible for the advice given here and practical consequences that ensue.