Here are a few of the basics:

Regular checks you should perform in between services

Fluid checks

Be sure to check your oil every couple of weeks (and remember to make sure the vehicle is on level ground when you do it!). Your engine will work most efficiently when filled to the 'Max' level with oil. Take care not to overfill it -- and ensure it does not fall below the 'Min' level.

Ensure the wiper jets are correctly aimed and that the washer bottle is not only full, but has an appropriate concentration of screen wash mix. More concentrate will be required in winter to help prevent freezing. And it's always worth checking your wiper blades for signs of cracking -- it's much better to notice the cracks in your wipers while stationary on your driveway, rather than in the fast lane of a motorway during a rainstorm.

Tyre pressures

You'll find information on the correct pressures on the inside of the driver's door frame or in your service handbook. Remember, correctly inflated tyres can improve the fuel economy of your vehicle, while under-inflated tyres can actually increase fuel consumption by 2.5%*. For a true tyre pressure reading, check the tyres when cold, after your vehicle has been idle for at least three hours.

Tyre tread

The legal level for tyre tread is 1.6mm, taken at 3 points across 3/4 of the width of the tyre. An illegal tyre is liable to a maximum fine of up to £2500, with 3 penalty points for each defective tyre.

Independent research indicates that one in ten cars are currently being driven with a tread depth at or below the legal limit. This is not only illegal, but highly dangerous, especially in the wet, where braking distances can be 52% greater than the equivalent tyre with a full 8mm of tread. If you have not checked your own tyres recently, it is certainly worth doing. Alternatively, pop in to see your local Hyundai Dealer and they can do it for you.

Other tips

Battery care

Car batteries are affected by the cold weather, reducing their efficiency and therefore the cranking power available. In addition, the ever increasing number of electrical items that draw power from the battery and the almost constant use of headlights in the winter increase the risk of the battery becoming drained. If the charge warning light comes on, or the battery seems sluggish on starting, get it checked as soon as possible by your local Hyundai Dealer. They can test the battery strength to make sure it definitely needs replacing -- so that you don't spend your money needlessly.

Fuel efficiency

Smooth, gradual acceleration helps increase your miles to the gallon, while rapid starts waste fuel. And try to maintain a steady speed -- fuel economy decreases rapidly at speeds above 60mph. Finally, if you have a manual transmission, shifting into high gear as soon as possible -- without straining the engine -- helps reduce drag and could use less fuel.

For further help or advice

Of course, your Hyundai Dealer is always on hand to help and provide advice. If you have any problems or need a simple check in between your normal service routine, ask your Dealer if they have a Summer or Winter Check on offer. By understanding the different extremes that summer and winter can place on the car, your local Hyundai Dealer will check specific aspects of the vehicle to give you the added reassurance that your car will remain trouble-free.

*Source: The AA Trust, Fuel Savings Tips