Click Mechanic (mobile affordable car maintenance)
Regular servicing (tyres, engines, oil changes) can improve fuel efficiency. Click Mechanic lets you book vetted local mechanics at good prices, due to low overheads.
Antifreeze is lethal to pets/wildlife, so let mechanics change it in enclosed spaces. Or use funnels (as with oil) and use sand/kitty litter to absorb spills (don’t mop).
AA has tips on buying used cars. Avoid ‘cut-and-shut (two damaged cars welded together), cloning (replacing number plates) and clocking (adjusting mileage). Don’t check cars in rain (water hides dents/scratches) and insist on a service history and V5C document.
ETA (Environmental Transport Association) offers vehicle inspection checks (plus eco-friendly insurance/breakdown cover).
Waterless car washes are better for the planet, as they stop oily untreated water going down storm drains and into the sea.
A Friendly Soap Bar (for mucky mechanics!)
Friendly Mechanic’s Soap (made in Northumberland) is also sold in packs of 12. Free from palm oil, it contains grease-busting lemon oil, exfoliating pumice stone and is scented with cedarwood, patchouli and tea tree oil.
As this soap contains essential oils, it’s best to avoid during pregnancy/nursing, if you’re a female mechanic (girl power!) Also keep away from babies and pets (due to citrus oils).
My husband says this cleans his greasy hands very well, and he smells no more of engine oil!
