Making sure that your car is prepared for winter can reduce the risk of problems such as poor visibility, skidding or breakdown.
1. Servicing
In winter, it is important to check you vehicle is well maintained and serviced. Make sure that your car has received its regular scheduled servicing, and consider booking it in for a winter service.
2. Battery
Make sure that the battery is fully charged and in good condition. Inspect the battery connections, ensuring that they are tight and free from any corrosion. Learn more about checking and recharging your battery here ...
3. Fluid Levels
Ensure that your oil is topped up and that you have the right concentration of anti-freeze in your coolant system.
4. Windscreen Wipers and Wash
Check that your rear-screen and windscreen wipers are in good condition and change them if they have become split, cracked or worn (find out how here ...). Make sure that your windscreen washers are adjusted correctly and add in a winter additive to your screen wash to prevent it from freezing.
5. Windows
Clear your windows and mirrors so that they are free from frost, ice and snow. You should also make sure that your windscreen is clean, as the glare from the low winter sun can make it difficult to see through dirty glass.
6. Tyres
All your tyres should be checked to ensure that they have a good depth of tread and are properly inflated. The minimum tread depth is 1.6 mm, but it is recommended that you replace your tyres once the tread is less than 3 mm.
7. Emergency Kit
Always make sure that you have an emergency pack in your car in case your break down or encounter any other problems. This should include the following items:
- Ice scraper
- De-icer
- Warm clothes
- Boots
- Spade
- Blanket
- Torch
- Food and drink
- Battery jump leads
- First-aid kit
