Get your car winter ready with our 8 top tips!
Tip One: Ensure you have enough fuel
Ensure you have an adequate fuel supply for your travels. Vehicles consume more fuel in congested traffic and during stop-and-go situations, common in winter weather! If you encounter unexpected traffic delays, you might find yourself short on fuel to finish your journey.
Tip Two: Check your oil levels
It is essential to verify that your car contains the appropriate type and amount of oil, particularly during the winter months. If you're uncertain about how to do this, consult your car's handbook and adhere to the guidelines for checking and topping up your oil if necessary. Remember to securely replace the cap and avoid overfilling.
Tip Three: Check your tyre air pressure and depth
We all understand that stopping distances are longer in icy and wet conditions, making it essential to have well-maintained tyres for your safety on the road. You can find the recommended tyre pressure for your car either in the handbook or on the inside of the driver's door.
In the UK, the legal tyre depth for cars is 1.6mm. You can check this using a tyre gauge, the marker bars on your tyres, or a 20p coin—if the outer band of the 20p is not visible, then your tyres meet the legal requirement.
The RAC advises maintaining a minimum tread depth of 3mm in icy or wet conditions.
Tip Four: Check your Windscreen Wipers and Wash
We all understand how filthy our windscreens can become during winter due to rain, snow, ice, and road debris. Maintaining clear visibility is essential. Make sure to replenish your windscreen wash with an all-weather formula to prevent it from freezing in cold temperatures!
One more thing you can try is to run your fingers along the edges of the blades and look for any splits in the rubber of your wipers.
Tip Five: Make sure you car has enough coolant!
Coolant is a blend of water and antifreeze that circulates through your engine to keep it cool. It's important to check the coolant level regularly and refill it as necessary. Always remember to perform this check when the engine is cool to avoid the risk of burns.
Tip Six: Test your electrics out
According to the RAC, battery issues are the primary cause of increased callouts during the winter months. Make sure to inspect your lights and indicators, replacing any bulbs or fuses as needed. If you're unsure or uncomfortable doing this yourself, feel free to take your vehicle to a local garage, where professionals will be ready to assist you.
Tip Seven: Create yourself a winter essentials box
Why not assemble a winter essentials box to prepare for any unexpected challenges? Consider including these simple items: an ice scraper, jump leads (if needed), a reflective warning triangle, sunglasses, an in-car phone charger, a portable charger, a blanket, and some snacks. These fundamental essentials will help you navigate the winter season more smoothly if needed.
Tip 8: Emergency Numbers and Information
In today's world, we keep most of our contact information in our phones. But what if your phone runs out of battery? Keeping a notebook in your glove compartment or winter essentials box is a smart solution. Before winter begins, jot down your breakdown details along with emergency contact numbers for friends and family.
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