Winter Essentials: Preparing Your Car For Winter

Getting your car ready for winter requires careful attention and a forward-thinking mindset. Making sure essential parts such as the battery, tyres, and lights are functioning properly can help you avoid the typical challenges that come with driving in cold weather.

Check your battery

Winter poses significant challenges for your vehicle's battery. The cold temperatures can deplete battery power more rapidly than normal. It is essential to have your battery assessed to confirm that it is fully charged and operating effectively.

A quick check at a nearby garage can determine if your car's battery is prepared for the winter months. This inspection helps you avoid surprises on chilly mornings, making it a crucial step in getting your vehicle ready for the colder season. If your battery is more than five years old or seems to have trouble starting, it might be time for a replacement.

De-icer and Ice scraper

It's important to always ensure your windscreen, windows, and mirrors are clear before driving. Not only does this keep you and others safe on the road, but it's also a legal requirement. If your visibility is poor due to ice or condensation on your windscreen whilst driving, you could face a £60 fine and three penalty points on your driving licence.

Using quick fixes like pouring boiling water on your windscreen can lead to the glass breaking, so it's wise to have the right tools available. By keeping an ice scraper and de-icer in your vehicle, you can ensure that your windscreen, mirrors, and windows stay clear, safe, and compliant with the law.

Tyres

Worn tyres pose a risk at all times, but they are particularly hazardous during winter driving, as the safe stopping distances greatly extend on icy, snowy, or wet roads.

Legally, tyres must have a minimum tread depth of 1.6mm; however, experts advise replacing them when they reach 3mm to ensure optimal stopping performance. Additionally, make sure to verify that you have a roadworthy spare tyre in your vehicle.

Windscreen Cleaner With Anti-Freeze

Windshield washer fluid containing antifreeze is essential as it ensures clear visibility in freezing temperatures by preventing the fluid from solidifying. This is particularly crucial in areas that experience severe winter weather. Würth's windscreen fluid protects against refreezing down to -8°c.

Conclusion

Getting your car ready for winter is essential. It guarantees safety and dependability during tough weather. Make sure to have your vehicle inspected, fluids replenished, and an emergency kit on hand. By following these steps, you can confront winter's obstacles with confidence.

Stay safe on the road and maintain your vehicle in excellent condition this season.