Keeping your vehicle healthy this winter
When winter strikes, many vehicles can find it a struggle to cope in the icy weather conditions. You take extra care of yourself during the colder months - so be sure to take care of your vehicle too. Here are six top tips to make sure your vehicle keeps running just as well as you do this winter.
1. Refill your radiator
This is important all year round, but in the winter, be sure to include antifreeze when you top up. This will ensure that the liquid in your vehicle's cooling system will remain liquid, rather than turning to ice.
2. Check your tyres
Tyre pressure should be checked at least every fortnight in the winter, and you should ensure, for safety, that your tyres have at least 3mm of tread. If you're worried about driving in wintry conditions, consider investing in winter tyres.
3. Check your lights
Visibility can be low during the winter, so test your lights - including fog lights and full beam lights - regularly to ensure that they are in perfect working order. Carry spare bulbs with you too, in case of emergency.
4. Check your battery - and replace if needed
The cold weather can place great strain on a vehicle's battery: if yours is more than five years old, consider replacing it before the winter sets in. Battery problems are the biggest cause of breakdowns during the winter months.
5. Refuel
Carrying at least a quarter of a tank of fuel at all times is recommended at this time of year: unexpected delays are inevitable in the winter, due to ice, accidents and increased traffic.
6. Look after your windscreen
Be sure that it's clean both inside and out: the low sun can make visibility poor. Small chips can expand as the temperature becomes lower too, so if you've been putting off repairs, now's a good time to make them a priority.
When driving in the winter, be sure to carry an emergency kit with you, as well as blankets and drinks just in case the worst happens. While you may think that issues are unlikely, it's always best to be prepared.