Getting Your Car Ready For Winter Driving
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Cold, frosty and wintry weather is really hard on vehicles, and it’s vital that your car is in the absolute best condition it can be before the winter months begin. Checking your car before the winter starts will ensure you do not end up stranded in the sleet or fog or have a serious accident like so many winter damaged cars do.
A cracked radiator is the cause of many a winter breakdown. This can happen when the level of coolant is not high enough or when that coolant does not contain sufficient anti-freeze solution. Check the concentration level of your anti-freeze and top your radiator up with a good brand.
Check that your battery is in good condition and begin by checking that the connections are in good condition and not corroded. If your battery is not holding a charge properly, now is the right time to find out why and get it repaired or replaced. A car battery only lasts for about 5 years, so you may need a new one if yours is a few years old.
If your windscreen wipers are worn, then replace them. Add anti-freeze to your windscreen washer fluid. Top it up with a good brand of washer that can cope with winter driving and all the grit and salt on the roads. Please do not use water as it’s really ineffective in the winter. This bacteria can enter the car via the ventilation system in the spray created as you wash your car.
Check that the distributor cap, points, spark plugs, condenser, ignition coil, and all visible cables are all in good condition, replace any that are split. In the winter months, the damp levels increase, which can lead to corroded cables that will cause electrical systems to fail. If you are aware of any leaks or water ingress, get these fixed too prior to the wet weather. If your service is due, you can book MOT online so a mechanic can give your car the once over.
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