Just like yourself, your car needs a health check every now and then as well. Before starting the engine check your oil, coolant, windscreen, power steering & brake fluid levels and make sure they are above the 'minimum' level indicated. Extended periods of non-use can cause the fluid levels to change so it pays to take a look. Also, check for any leaks underneath the vehicle.

Starting your vehicle is a great way to ensure that your battery remains topped up. Even when the car is turned off there is still a power supply circulating around the car. This is how your car can remember the time and your favourite radio stations. Make sure you start the motor and let it idle for at least 5 minutes. This also applies to electric vehicles too! When you're finished running the car, lock the car with your remote which will ensure all the vehicle systems have shut down.

Ensure this is done outside in a well-ventilated area and don’t leave your vehicle unattended.

It's important to not let foreign matter sit on your Renault for too long. If left unattended this can damage or contaminate the paint finish. Pay special attention to your parking location as tree sap and bird droppings are both particularly nasty to car paint finishes. Go on, get the sponge and vacuum cleaner out, now is a great time to give your Renault the thorough wash it deserves.

If you are unable to drive the vehicle on the road, it is a great idea to at least move the vehicle forward and reverse for a couple of metres. This is a great way to ensure that the brake pads do not seize to the rotors. If this isn't possible release and re-engage the parking brake several times.

If your vehicle has not been driven for a longer period, caution needs to be taken as a reduction of braking performance may be experienced on the first few brake pedal applications.

If the vehicle cannot be moved for a significant amount of time it's prudent to consider increasing your tyre pressures to around 40 psi (2.7 bar). This will avoid 'flat-spotting' the tyres which occurs when the car sits too long without moving. Don't forget to adjust your tyre pressures back to normal when you get back on the road.

If your car has been locked with the windows up for an extended period of time it is common for the interior to smell a bit 'musty'. On the next fine day, wind down the windows and let the car 'breathe' for a couple of hours. Another great idea is to run the heating system (with A/C off) on its maximum temperature for several minutes. The persistent reminder of that two week old banana will soon be a distant memory.

You might not be alone in enjoying your Renault. The sheltered engine bay of your car makes for a great home for animals and unwanted debris. Have a quick check of your engine bay for any signs of habitation, debris buildup & damage to components.

If your vehicle is a Plug-in Hybrid (PHEV) or 100% electric Renault, it is recommended that you do not leave your high voltage battery either fully charged or almost empty of charge (60-70% is preferable).  This will ensure your battery remains at its best possible efficiency when you are ready to get back on the road again.

The owner's manual found in the glovebox of your Renault is a great place to learn more about your vehicle. Not only does it cover off many of the above tips in detail, it's also a great way to reacquaint yourself with many of the excellent features included in your Renault.