The winter months can place a lot of stress on your vehicle, especially if the weather is particularly harsh. As a result of difficult conditions, your vehicle has to work harder which means certain parts of it are more easily broken or may need repairing. These are things that were maybe never a problem in the warmer months when your vehicle wasn’t struggling as much.
If you know your vehicle will be needed throughout winter then you’ll need to do some checks on a regular basis to ensure it is in working order. We’ve created a run-down of all the things that need to be inspected when the winter hits…
Inspect your Vehicle on a Regular Basis
There are lots of small things, as well as large that should be checked before the winter months hit, so we recommend you visit a licensed professional to have your vehicle inspected to keep everything in check.
When you take your vehicle to a mechanic, they will check all of the systems and parts of the car are working, such as the radiator and breaks and make sure it is in the best condition possible. The mechanic will also top up any fluids to their recommended level, such as the antifreeze, brake fluid and oil. It is also essential that you always leave a safe amount of fuel in the vehicle to prevent the fuel line from freezing in the winter months.
Keep your Car Sheltered
There’s nothing worse in winter than stepping out to a car that’s frozen over by ice, or covered in snow and spending an extra 15 minutes stood in the cold, de-icing the vehicle. The best thing to do is keep your car covered, whether that be in a garage or with a protective cover if no shelter is available.
Check your Windscreen and Wiper Blades
In the winter, having your wiper blades brake whilst driving through a blizzard is extremely hazardous and can be avoided by checking your wipers beforehand and purchasing a cheap set. Auto shops sell wipers at a very good price and they are quite easily to put on the vehicle, with no tools required. When fitting your new blades, remember to check your washer fluid is filled to the recommended level too.
Keep your Number Plate Clean
Whilst inspecting your vehicle, make sure you check that your number plate is clean and free of dirt. Any markings covering your number plate can stop cameras from registering your vehicle properly which may be an issue if you pass a speed camera or your vehicle is stolen.
Check your Battery
Your battery doesn’t like the cold, wintery weather, so it is no surprise when your battery goes flat in the dead of winter. This is why you need to pay close attention to your battery on a regular basis as it cannot retain a lot of energy under cold conditions. If financially viable, we suggest buying a new batter in winter to save you the hassle of worrying about your vehicle not starting.
Check your Tyre Tread
The tread of your tyres is always important, and especially in the winter months when the roads are not as reliable. The law requires a minimum tread depth of 1.6mm, however it is a lot safer to have a tyre tread of around 2mm – 3mm when winter hits in order to keep you as safe and secure as possible on the slippery roads.
Hopefully now you’ve got all of the information you need to keep your vehicle safe on the roads for the coming winter months. Be sure to have your vehicle checked regularly and put all of the necessary procedure into place.
