Winter Checks on your car

Tyres

• Check all of your tyres (including the spare) for condition, pressure and tread depth.
• For winter motoring, the tread should be at least 3mm, if they are below this think about buying new tyres now before the colder weather sets in. Maybe you can also consider fitting winter tyres.

Windscreen wipers

• Old windscreen blades can cause smearing, new blades will clear the windscreen more effectively and thus help reduce the dazzle from the low autumn sun
• Replace your wipers regularly or if they squeak and smear the screen when they wipe
• Check the condition of the wipers, they should be flexible and without any cracks or missing chunks

Windscreen

• If your windows are covered in ice or condensation clear them before setting off
• Windscreen washer fluid, use one with a purpose-made additive that reduces the chance of it freezing - do not use washing up liquid.
• If you have a chip on the windscreen consider having it repaired, the change in temperature can cause the chip to become a crack. If you have comprehensive car insurance this is normally free.
• Clean inside of the windscreen to reduce glare - just use a tissue or glass cleaner once every 2 weeks to keep your screen free from road grime
• Invest in a de-icer; never use hot water on a windscreen as thermal shock can crack the windscreen. To remove ice always use a scraper or de-icer spray plus turn on the air condition to demist at the same time

Antifreeze

• Antifreeze should be used all year round as the additives help to prevent corrosion, if you have added water then the fluid might be too weak to stop freezing.
• Should be checked as part of your regular service to stop you getting a frozen engines, these are expensive to repair
• Your handbook will specify what antifreeze to use for your car
• If in doubt go to tour garage and check it out

Battery

• These can struggle during the winter; you put a much heavier load on to it during the cold. Modern batteries also do not give you a warning that the old batteries did (i.e. slow starting over a period of time), now they seem to either work or not.
• Ensure the terminal are clean and dry (remember that crusty build up you used to get in the old days)
• Also make sure the terminals are tightly connected.
• If you battery is over five years old it might be wise to change it.

Bulbs

• You should check your lights are working every time you drive the car, most people don't do this so try to examine them at least once a week (including brake lights and number plate lights)
• Check all of the lenses are clean.
• Always have a selection of spare bulbs for your car.
• If you are changing bulbs, follow your handbook although your headlight bulbs may need you to visit a garage