A campaign to ensure motorists’ vehicles are in top condition this spring has been launched by the UK-wide Good Garage Scheme.

The Forté-backed Good Garage Scheme www.goodgaragescheme.com has launched its comprehensive 21-point ‘Spring Check’ for member garages to offer their customers, following the hammering many vehicles have taken during the winter ‘big freeze’.

Post-winter problems can include salt build up which can be highly corrosive if left unattended and can cause major long-term damage to a vehicle’s under body. Harsh winter conditions could also have taken their toll on components like tyres, wheels, suspension, shocks and struts, with the increasing number of potholes in the frame as the prime suspect.

The Good Garage Scheme’s ‘Spring Check’ essential checklist includes:-

• Condition and levels of summer coolant.
• Engine oil.
• Brakes and tyres.
• Windscreens.
• Wipers and lights.

Garages taking part in the ‘Spring Check’ campaign not only receive free point of sale posters for their reception areas, but also free check pads to carry out the 21 point check.

Phil Dugmore, Technical Manager for the Good Garage Scheme, said: “The ‘big freeze’ could well have had an adverse effect on vital car components with salt build up and potholes causing no end of trouble. The Good Garage Scheme Spring Check will enable our membership to give motorists expert advice on the condition of their vehicles and rectify any problems.”

The Good Garage Scheme has also recommended that air conditioning systems are checked, especially if they have been inactive during the winter. It has been proven that harmful mould and bacteria can grow in the ducts while the system remains unused over many months. Drivers can be blissfully unaware of the dangers it can pose when switched back on.

Launched by Forté over four years ago, the Good Garage Scheme’s membership comprises of independent garages and workshops where customers are assured of service excellence.

Now widely accepted as a mark of quality for independent garages across the UK, Good Garage Scheme garages are recognised as providing exceptional service to their customers based on a rigorously monitored mandatory code of practice. Customers looking for their nearest Good Garage can quickly locate one using the easy-to-use search facility on the Good Garage Scheme website www.goodgaragescheme.com.