Is your car winter-ready? The weather is changing quickly here in the UK, and it is important that you get your vehicle ready for what can be a challenging, stressful, and dangerous season for motorists. Here are a few of the main steps that you will need to take to get your car ready for the winter months so that you can drive with confidence.
Fluids
One of the easiest steps to take is to check your various fluid levels and top up to the recommended levels. You need to keep these fluids at the recommended level to optimise the performance of your automobile. The main fluids that you will need to check include:
- Engine oil
- Coolant/antifreeze
- Brake fluid
- Power steering fluid
- Clutch fluid
- Windscreen wash
Warning Lights
It is always important to keep an eye out for any warning lights on your dashboard, but particularly during winter. Many issues can occur during the winter months, and you should not delay getting these addressed; otherwise, you could find yourself stranded on the side of the road.
Tyres
If you live in an area where the conditions get particularly bad, you might want to think about switching to winter tyres. Changing tyres is always smart at this time of the year so that you can benefit from the superior grip, but you will want to make sure that you go with a reputable brand like Toyo tyres instead of going with the cheapest option.
Lights & Brakes
It goes without saying that your car lights and brakes are incredibly important during the winter months. You should test all of your lights to make sure that they are working properly and give them a good clean throughout the winter months. Wet conditions can significantly impact your car’s braking ability, so you should pay close attention to your brakes and get them looked at by a professional if you have any concerns.
Be Prepared
It is wise to have a winter emergency kit in your car at this time of the year. This should include items such as:
- Torch
- Extra clothing
- Blankets
- First-aid kit
- Water and snacks
- Phone charger
- Ice scraper
- Shovel
- Jumper cables
- Tow rope
Plan Your Journeys Ahead of Time
It is also important to plan your journeys ahead of time. You should plan the most efficient route, check the weather forecast, and let people know what route you are taking. If you ever feel unsafe getting behind the wheel – you should put off the journey until the conditions improve.
Winter can be a difficult time of the year for motorists. The above information will help you get your car in the best condition for winter so that you can drive confidently and avoid any issues with your automobile.