Winter Car Checks to Keep You On The Road - Part 2

When it comes to seasons, winter is definitely the time when your car needs the most care and attention to ensure it runs smoothly and remains safe in what are often more challenging driving conditions. Ice and snow can also cause unnecessary damage to your vehicle, and the current lockdown restrictions are also causing issues for car owners due to cars being left for extended periods without being driven. 

Here’s our winter car check guide to keep you on the road this winter:

Windscreen Wipers and Blades
Salt, snow and rain can quite often limit your visibility when driving during the winter months so it is essential that your windscreen remains clear at all times. Regularly check that your windscreen wipers are in full working order and never turn them on when frozen or covered in snow as this can cause them to snap or break the motor.

It is also important to check that the wiper blades are in good condition, with not too much wear to ensure they can effectively clear your screen when required.

Please also remember to top up your washer fluid to ensure further safety when driving.

Tyres
Having a good tyre tread and depth is essential at all times of the year, especially the winter. Always ensure that they are well above the legal limit of 1.6mm.

We also recommend that you regularly check for any damage such as nails, cracks or damage to the rubber as these could be a sign that they may need changed.

Finally, ensure your tyre pressure is correct. You can find out your car’s recommended tyre pressure in your owner’s handbook.

Battery
In the current circumstances, many drivers are using their car a lot less as only essential travel is advised, however it is still recommend that you turn your car on regularly and try and drive this when possible, for ideally a minimum of 20 minutes.

If travel isn’t possible, you can also purchase a charger or jump-start pack so you can still travel when permitted, should your battery go flat.

Lights
With darker nights and sometimes limited visibility, it’s imperative that all of your car’s lights are working and any bulbs are replaced as soon as they run out.

It’s also advisable to wash your car regularly to ensure your headlights remain clean and provide maximum visibility when driving.

Be Prepared
Finally, always ensure you’re prepared when out and about incase you get stranded or encounter some particularly challenging conditions.

This includes ensuring you have ample fuel, and carrying a few essentials such as a blanket, water, a shovel and a torch.

For added peace of mind, you may also wish to consider a 4x4 as they are much more effective for winter driving. We have the largest 4x4 centre in the North West, with over 250 models available. View the range now by clicking here.