The Great British weather is more unpredictable than ever, with temperature fluctuations, storm, wind, rain and snow within one short month.
Here’s a handy checklist to ensure your car is winter-ready:
Check your battery
Cold weather can cause your car battery to lose charge faster. If your battery is already weak, it may struggle to start when the temperatures drop.
- If your battery is more than three years old, it may be time for a replacement. Many garages offer free battery checks.
- Dirt and corrosion can affect the battery’s performance, so give the terminals a quick clean.
- Make sure your car is regularly used during winter. If it’s sitting unused for long periods, consider using a battery maintainer.
Top up anti-freeze levels
Anti-freeze (also known as coolant) is vital for protecting your engine from freezing in colder weather. Make sure your car’s coolant levels are topped up and check the condition of the coolant mixture.
- Mix your coolant correctly- the coolant should be mixed with water at a 50/50 ratio, but you may want to add a little more anti-freeze if you’re expecting extreme cold.
- Check the freeze point - some garages can test the freeze point of your coolant to make sure it's appropriate for the winter temperatures.
Inspect your tyres
Tyre safety is always important, but especially when the roads are slippery with ice or snow.
- Check tread depth - the legal minimum tread depth is 1.6mm, but experts recommend 3mm or more for winter driving for better grip.
- Ensure correct tyre pressure. Cold weather can cause tyres to deflate slightly, so make sure they are inflated to the correct pressure as specified in your vehicle’s manual.
- Consider winter tyres - if you live in an area that frequently experiences ice or snow, it might be worth considering winter tyres, which offer improved grip in extreme conditions.
Wiper blades and screen wash
Visibility is one of the most important factors when driving in winter conditions. Ensure your wiper blades are in good condition and your screen wash is topped up with a winter-friendly formula that won’t freeze in cold temperatures.
- Check your wiper blades. If your blades are leaving streaks or making noise, replace them. It’s a small cost to pay for better visibility.
- Check your screen wash reservoir regularly and ensure you have a winter-specific fluid that can withstand low temperatures.
Lights and reflectors
With the shorter days, proper lighting is essential for visibility, especially in foggy or snowy conditions.
- Check all lights - ensure that headlights, tail lights, brake lights, and indicators are functioning properly. Worn bulbs should be replaced, and any cracked lenses repaired to ensure your lights are working efficiently.
- Clear lights of dirt and ice - winter grime, salt, and ice can obscure the effectiveness of your car’s lights. Regularly clean them to maintain visibility.
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