AA SERVICE Centres across the South East and Thames Valley are giving motorists the chance to get a brand new car for free, just by filling in a prize draw entry form.

With no purchase necessary, anyone over 18 years of age can pick up a form from 35 AA Service Centres across the region. Drivers have until the end of October to enter the prize draw to win either a Renault Megane Hatch Dynamique, worth £13,300* or Renault Megane Coupe-Cabriolet Privilege, worth £19,200*.

AA Service Centres offer five golden rules to keep the smiles lasting for miles:

• Get the staff to show you around the car. They should show how the keys and security system works, how to open the fuel cap, the boot and the bonnet.

• Try all the controls, so that you know at least the important ones before you drive on the road. Make sure you know how to work the lights, wipers, indicators, gear pattern and braking system.

• Check that you have everything for the new car such as the driver’s handbook, spare keys, locking wheel nuts, any security codes entered, warranty cover documents and the service record log.

• Walk around the car with it dry in daylight to check the bodywork and paint. Also check the interior. Make sure the spare wheel/tools and jack, and any extras ordered, are included with the vehicle.

• As soon as possible spend some time with the driver’s manual, checking things like fuel required, tyre pressures, oil and water levels, dashboard warning lights and so on. Drivers whose cars need a service or MOT can phone AA Service Centres on 0845 070 0214 and quote GENE16.

* Manufacturers’ OTR retail price.