Without proper preparation, the frosty weather can damage your car. This guide will assist you in readying your vehicle to withstand winter’s harsh elements. By ensuring each of these factors is checked and up to date, you will be able to drive with confidence during the colder months.
Coolant And Antifreeze
It’s crucial to keep your coolant and antifreeze levels topped up. To check your coolant level, look under the bonnet for the usually white coolant reservoir. Use the external markings on the reservoir to determine if a top-up is needed. Antifreeze prevents the coolant’s water from freezing, so maintaining correct levels is important for your car’s health.
Battery
In winter, even a fully charged battery can weaken by approximately 35%. Therefore, it’s essential to have your battery professionally inspected before winter sets in. A well-maintained battery reduces the likelihood of faults while driving in snowy conditions. Regular checks for any damage are key to ensuring safety.
Lights
With shorter days in winter, you’ll use your lights more frequently. Driving with any broken lights, including headlights, brake lights, and indicators, can be risky. Regularly inspect these lights yourself or have them checked by a professional. Ensure no bulbs are blown and that the lights are clean to guarantee safety for you and other road users in the dark.
Tyres
Regularly inspecting your tyres every few weeks during winter is advisable to prevent damage. Temperature fluctuations can cause the rubber in tyres to expand, leading to splitting or changes in tyre pressure. The type of tyre is also crucial, especially for driving on snow and ice. Asda Tyres offers a range of winter tyres suitable for these conditions.
Brakes
It’s generally best to have your brakes checked by an expert at a garage, especially during the winter months. Properly functioning brakes are crucial due to the increased stopping distance on icy roads. If your car pulls to one side, or the brakes feel spongy and emit strange noises, this could indicate a problem. Have them inspected at a garage promptly.
Essential Gear
To stay safe while out driving, there are plenty of things you can keep in your car. All will help in dealing with a variety of situations you may find yourself in.
- Ice Scraper – If your window becomes covered in ice and frost this can easily remove it to ensure you can continue driving safely.
- Jump Leads – If the battery in your vehicle fails, they will be able to recharge it.
- Torch – If you find yourself out of your vehicle on a dark winter’s night, a torch will allow you to see what it is you are looking at.
- Blankets – If you do break down on the side of the road, it’s best to have an extra layer to keep yourself warm while you wait for help.
- Phone Charger – If you need to call for help, having your phone fully charged at all times is crucial.
Ensure all the gear mentioned above is stored somewhere in your car before you set out on a winter drive, and we can guarantee your safety while out on the road. Plus don’t forget to check each part of your vehicle, and have your car prepared for the frost today.