Just a few simple checks are all that is needed to prevent a breakdown this winter. Make sure your vehicle has been regularly serviced then follow these steps:
1. Check The Battery
One of the most common causes of breakdown in winter is a flat battery. Check the condition and state of charge of your battery using a battery charger. Keep your battery fully charged. Make sure the battery terminals are tight and free from corrosion. A coating of petroleum jelly will prevent this.
2. Check Coolant/Antifreeze Level
Check the level of coolant in the expansion tank is topped up above the min mark, and check that the concentration is sufficient to prevent freezing. Check level weekly.
3. Check your tyres
Make sure your tyre pressures are correct as stated in your owners manual. Check your tyre tread depth is above the legal limit of 1.6mm or preferably more than 3mm. Check tyre condition. Tears or bulges in the sidewall or any sharp objects in the tread which may cause a puncture.
4. Vision and Visibility
Check all lights are in working order, including number plate lamps and fog lights. Check the condition of the wiper blades and replace if split or cracked. Keep all windows and lights clean. Check for stone chips in the windscreen, it is worth getting any stone chips repaired if possible to prevent the windscreen from cracking in the cold weather.
Image ©iStockphoto.com/Leigh Schindler
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I have been growing carnivorous plants for around 7 years now but I am a bicycle mechanic by trade who loves cars! I'll probably write a few guides around these interests as I like the thought of helping out people who like the same stuff as me but don't know how to get started.
