WINTER CAR CARE

Giving your vehicle special attention is essential at all times  and if you have not gotten your vehicle ready for winter yet, be sure to make it a priority for your safety and the safety of those sharing the roads with you. Here are some tips to get you started:

Check your tire pressure often.

Fluctuating temperatures can mean changes in your tire pressure, which can lead to tire damage, poor driving control, and lower fuel mileage. Check your owner’s manual for your vehicle’s recommended tyre pressure, and measure your tyres frequently to make sure they match it.

Change your tyres.

Worn tyres are dangerous at any time and worse in wet conditions. Tyres need a minimum tread depth of 1.6mm by law, but it is recommended that you change tyres at 3mm to maintain safe stopping distances. Do not forget to check if you have a roadworthy spare tyre too.

Check your oil levels and do not gamble with your fuel light

Check and ensure that your oil level is between the minimum and maximum mark on your car’s dipstick. You should check the oil level once your car is fully warmed up. A cold car will look low on oil. Remember, too much oil can be as bad as too little.

Test your battery

A flat or faulty battery can cause great inconvenience and the risk of battery failure is greater in cold weather. Aim to change your car’s battery every three years , or sooner if it’s causing you problems in the cold weather.

Pay attention to dashboard warning lights

Many people do not know what the warning lights on their dashboard mean, now would be a good time to get to know what all of these lights mean. And if one appears on your dashboard, get it checked out as soon as possible.

Coolant

Coolant should be changed every 2 – 5 years, depending on the car and the type of coolant required.

Check your brakes

Your brakes need to be in tip-top condition and if they squeal, make other noises or generate unusual sensations, get them checked.

Check if your car is due for service

Like many of the tips above, vehicle service is important all year-round however every car is different, so check your owner’s handbook for the manufacturer’s recommended service schedule. In some areas, it can take a couple of weeks for the garage to fit you in for a service, plan ahead and make sure you are booked in good time.