Mechanic shares a £5 trick to potentially double your car's lifespan

Top car mechanic Scotty Kilmer has shared a handy tip that could significantly extend the life of petrol and diesel vehicles, using a common item found in UK stores. Scotty explained that applying silicone spray to rubber seals around the boot and door handles can prevent them from developing issues, potentially stopping doors from sticking.

He emphasised the effectiveness of this simple solution, suggesting it could " double the life" of vehicles, which is particularly beneficial for owners of second-hand cars. On his YouTube channel, Scotty advised: " If you've ever had sticky or leaking door trunk seals then check this out."

He continued, highlighting the often-overlooked importance of these seals: "Now nobody ever thinks about these rubber seals but I do," reports the Express. Scotty detailed the process, saying, "If you get spray silicone and spray them and then wipe them down just like once a year, not only will they not stick when you open them but they won't leak when it rains."

He shared his own experience as proof of the method's efficacy: "This car is 28 years old, the trunk still doesn't leak, the doors still don't leak. All because I spray the rubber seals once a year." Scotty also pointed out additional benefits: "As an added benefit being silicone and pliable rain won't stick on them and they won't freeze when it rains and it gets cold outside and you can't get in your car."

Silicone spray is readily available at DIY retailers such as Screwfix for under £5. The mechanic's advice was met with support from motorists, some of whom claimed they have been using this technique "for years".

Many have recently tried the tip for maintaining their cars in cold weather and were impressed with the results .A YouTube viewer, @josephquinton990, shared: "That's right Scotty, I've been doing that for years. It's hard to thaw your car out if you can't get in it."

Another user, @MrPoppyDuck, commented: "Been doing that every fall here in the rust belt. Reduces doors from freezing shut and tearing weatherstripping. Thanks Scotty for sharing that nugget of knowledge! ".

@skistrycharski6999 also added: "Been doing it for years.... Good tip!" @davidwood2387 found success with the advice, saying: "I did this on my Subaru because the back hatch was sticking. And it works."

Meanwhile, @Stuart68505 expressed gratitude: "Thank you Scotty. Lately, while my car heats up in the sun, the door gaskets stick and I was wondering how to fix that. Now I know! Very good timing Scotty."

BookMyGarage, a leading comparison site for vehicle service and repairs, highlighted the importance of functioning car doors for MOT tests, stating: "The front doors should open from the inside and outside, and the rear doors need to open so that the rear seat belts can be tested."