November has come around quickly and colder temperatures are just around the corner. The winter weather can put stress on your car, so it’s a good idea to prepare your car where possible.
To prevent breaking down in the cold and being stranded, here’s some ways you can best prepare your vehicle for the winter.
Test your car battery
When the temperature drops, we don’t think twice about turning the heating up in our cars. Alongside the dark evenings which mean we use our lights more, and the cold weather in general – these all can put a big strain on our cars battery.
A battery is meant to last for five years on average, but this can vary depending on your vehicle. If it’s getting old, this extra strain can risk your battery losing power.
It is possible to check your battery yourself if you have a battery tester. However if you’re not familiar with this, it’s best to leave it to a professional to do for you.
Check your anti-freeze
Anti-freeze is a liquid that works by lowering the freezing point of water in your engine. Its job is to stop the water in the cooling system from freezing during the winter.
If you don’t use anti-freeze, you run the risk of damaging your engine. Water expands when freezing, which can cause your radiators, pipes and water pumps to split or break.
Unfortunately it isn’t always as easy as buying anti-freeze – there’s multiple different types for every type of engine. The correct type should be found in your cars handbook, but it’s difficult to tell which has been used already in your car.
If you’re not sure which type to use, it’s always best to give us a call and let a professional advise you.
Check your tyres
Wet or icy roads can pose a big challenge to your car. Braking distances increase by up to tenfold, grip is reduced and your visibility is often limited.
Suitable tyres are important all year round, but winter conditions can prove to you just why they’re necessary. Ask yourself these questions:
- Is my tread-depth okay?
- Are my tyres suitable for winter weather?
- Do my tyres need replacing?
If you’ve been putting off a tyre change, now is the time to do it. If not for your safety, optimal tyres also improve fuel efficiency and even reduce emissions.
Regardless of your budget, at Bodymek we stock a variety of tyres to suit everyone. Book here.
Revisit tips about driving on ice
Although everyone knows to watch their speed when things are slippery, there are some other tips that people aren’t always aware of.
If possible, try to pull away in second gear. In icy conditions, your priority should be keeping your revs down. Driving in first gear can give you the highest amount of wheel spin.
If you find yourself in a skid, don’t try to brake out of it. Instead, steer gently into it. By steering into it, you allow your tyres to regain traction.
If you have any doubts or concerns about your car, it’s best to get it checked out. Give us a call on 01604 589179 or book in here to give yourself peace of mind.
