Make sure you’re being a responsible driver this winter with these simple tips from experts at Michelin on getting your car ready for winter:
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1. Prevent the big freeze
Ensure the anti-freeze in your car’s radiator is topped up to the correct level and is mixed at the correct strength (a local garage can check this for you). It has several vital functions such as preventing the engine coolant from freezing, raising the boiling point to avoid overheating, and reducing corrosion inside your engine.
2. Get a grip
Winter, or cold weather tyres, as they are sometimes called are recommended for the winter months. They offer shorter stopping distances on snow, ice and cold, wet roads compared to normal tyres and the Michelin Alpin A4 has once again been recognised by consumer magazine Which? as a ‘best buy’.
3. Check your tyres
If you choose not to replace your tyres, at least make sure their tread is deeper than the legal limit of 1.6mm and that they don’t have any bald patches, cuts or sidewall bulges. If in doubt, get them checked by a tyre specialist. Also, check tyre pressures are set to the manufacturer’s recommended levels as this can greatly impact on the vehicle’s performance and safety.
4. Recharge your batteries
Your car battery is the life of your car (literally). Don’t forget to get it checked as the cold can drain its power significantly. If it isn’t working to the optimum level, replace it; the winter weather will only make it worse.
5. See…
Make sure your windscreen wipers are in tip-top condition and that your screen-wash bottle is topped-up with a good strong concentration of fluid. If the wipers aren’t clearing your screen properly then it will be time to invest in some new ones. Have a look at your wiper blades and if they look worn or are splitting, replace them.
6. ...and be seen
A visual check of your car’s exterior lights will ensure you are seen and can see. It would be a nightmare to turn them on one night only to discover they aren’t working properly. Keep a spare bulb kit in your car for moments like this. Remember; be prepared for anything.
7. Prepare for emergencies
An essential if the weather forecast is really bad is an emergency kit, just in case the worst happens. Make sure it contains a torch, a blanket, first aid kit, water and food, and if heavy snow is forecast, a shovel.