I’m a car expert… seven key parts to check before winter – it could save you hundreds in repairs
A CAR expert has urged drivers to check seven key parts of their motor before the temperature drops.
Motors outfit Motorway compiled a list of nifty tips which could save you time and money as the harsher conditions set in.
Check your antifreeze
Antifreeze is an essential fluid when it comes to car maintenance.
Be sure to regularly check your antifreeze is comfortably above the minimum level as this will ensure your vehicle’s fluids are circulating as they should be.
Overfilling your antifreeze can cause lasting damage as it could overheat the cooling system.
Check your brakes
Frequently checking your brakes is essential during the colder months, as icy roads can cause your motor to skid.
If you hear rattles, squeaks or shows any other irregularity, it’s best to send your car in for an examination.
Tyres
Experts recommend assessing your tyres before you get behind the wheel on wet or icy days.
The minimum law requirement is to have a tyre thread depth of 1.6mm.
However, many service providers recommend a depth of 3mm to maintain a safe stopping distance, especially when experiencing rainy conditions.
Add-ons such as snow chains, tyre socks and winter tyres can help to increase your tyres grip.
Wiper blades & windscreen wash
Ensuring your window wipers are in working order is another well-advised tip as temperatures begin to drop.
Drivers can do this by wiping down the wipers with a clean cloth between trips.
However, you should never pull a blade off a frozen windscreen during the wintry months, as this can cause the rubber to tear.
You may also find that washer fluid is distributed frequently during the winter, so keep one eye on those fluid levels as having an empty tank is against the law.
Test your battery
Car battery’s are more likely to drain sooner in the winter than they are in warmer conditions.
If your car temperature begins to fall, your battery light flickers when you switch the engine on or your motor’s speed begins to slow down, it’s worth getting your car checked out with your mechanic as soon as possible.
Considering that getting a replacement done at a garage can cost anywhere between £100 and £400, addressing the problem straight away will help avoid forking out eye-watering fees.
Check your oil and fuel levels
As cars need oil and fuel to run, be mindful of your car’s levels for the former and latter.
Cars need oil and fuel to run, otherwise, they will simply break down.
For EV users, simply make sure your Tesla is adequately charged when you set out on the road.
If you can help it, try to keep your electric vehicle in a parking position where snow can’t gather under the car where the battery is located.
Protecting your cars paint and exterior
During winter, your car is faced with the extra grit laid down to help de-ice the roads you drive on, which can corrode and damage your car’s body.
Giving your car an exhaustive wax at the start of the season or regularly washing your motor to wash away any salt or solution are both recommended.