A chill can be felt in the air as Autumn makes its presence known and we realise that we have to get ready for the inevitable arrival of the cooler winter weather. However, as the season changes – have you thought about your car and what you could be doing now to ensure it is able to perform optimally in the colder weather? With the frosty mornings nearing there are a few things you can do to make sure your vehicle is ready to face winter – even if you are aren’t.
Here are 5 tips to get your car winter ready:
- Check the battery – colder temperatures mean your engine needs more current from the battery to start so you want to make sure it’s working properly. You also want to check your battery fluid, that your connections are corrosion-free and that your battery has all the water it needs. And, as a safety precaution, keep a pair of jumper cables in the car.
- Check and change the oil – generally you need thinner oil in the winter, so check your car’s manual to find out what viscosity should be used in cooler temperatures.
- Check the tyres – ensure the tyres have the correct pressure and regularly check the tread on all four tyres.
- Make sure you can see and be seen – make sure your lights and indicators are working properly especially for those darker mornings and evenings and ensure that your windshield wipers are working correctly for maximum visibility. You may also want to buy a good washer fluid with an antifreeze solution – for those below zero mornings.
- Check the defroster and heater – not only for your own personal comfort but to ensure you are also able to defrost your windows for better visibility.
- Check with your vehicle recovery service provider that the unit is in good working order as unfortunately, the car thieves don’t hibernate during the winter months!
So, while you are unpacking those winter clothes, remember, your car also needs to be ready to take on whatever this winter will throw at it.