The most challenging season of all is winter. Read on for our Winter Maintenance Tips.
Windscreen
More than likely you will wake up to ice on your windscreen during the winter months. Do not be tempted to use a quick fix (jug of hot water) as this may crack your windscreen or worse.
Give yourself plenty of time, set aside 10-15 minutes extra in morning so you can fully de-ice and de-mist your vehicle. Stock up on de-icer and make sure you have a windscreen scrapper at all times, your car can freeze over quicker than you think in low temperatures.
Ensure you have full visibility before setting off, being safe is more important than being on time and causing an accident due to poor vision. Don’t forget to top your screen wash up regularly and check your wipers for damages.
Oil Levels
Check your oil levels weekly, making sure the oil levels are between the maximum and minimum points at all times. This will help ensure no damage or wear is being caused to your engine from friction and heat.
Whilst checking the oil level also check your other fluids; screen wash, coolant etc.
Battery Levels
The AA reported attending to an average of 1,150 breakdowns every hour in winter last year, with flat batteries being the most common reason for breakdown assistance.
The use of heaters, headlights, interior lights and other electrical components over time will cause strain on the battery itself. Be sure to switch off interior lights and headlights when they are not needed and make sure all lights are off when leaving the vehicle. After de-misting the interior, turn heaters off to also help maintain the batteries life.
Tyres
As the road conditions change in winter and across the seasons in the UK your vehicles tyres are increasing important to your safety. The AA recommends motorists have no less than 2mm of tyre tread all year round and preferably a minimum of 3mm in the winter.
If you are unsure of your tyre treads you can check them yourself or visit your nearest garage who may check them for you. It is also important to keep an eye on your tyre pressures and maintain the recommended PSI stated in your handbook.