Cold weather car care Blog

Have you noticed how many things need a little extra attention in winter? From keeping your skin hydrated to keeping your home insulated. Well it turns out that cars are no exception. So to help ensure you stay safe on the road this winter, we offer these helpful car care tips:

1. Get servicing sorted - if your car is out of service plan and you haven’t had it serviced in a while, now is an ideal time to do so. A service technician will be able to identify issues that may worsen in cold weather and offer ways to address them. They will check components like your brakes, cam-belt, suspension and battery. They will also check that things like your brake fluid, engine oil and anti-freeze are at the correct level for optimal performance.

2. Avoid tyre trouble – since colder weather can cause a drop in tyre pressure, it’s vital to check tyre pressure regularly. This can be done easily any time you fill up on fuel. It’s also a good idea to take your car to a tyre centre to check their overall condition and to see if the tyres should be rotated. This can help ensure even wear and tear and prolong their lifespan.

3. Check lights and wipers – considering the sun sets earlier and rises later in winter, you may spend more time driving in the dark. So ensure that all your lights and demisters are working properly. And although rain isn’t so common in winter, be prepared for unexpected downpours with working wiper blades.

4. Prepare for emergencies – if you’re ever stuck on the side of the road due to a breakdown, you’ll be grateful you packed an emergency kit. This should include things like a first-aid kit, torch, jumper cables, blankets, non-perishable food and water. Keep a warning triangle to put on the road behind your car, and ensure you turn on your hazard lights so that other motorists can clearly see you.

5. Keep comfortable – don’t let a cold draft distract you from driving. Check that all door and window seals are intact, and have them repaired or replaced if necessary. Also check that your climate control system and heater are working properly, to keep your car at a comfortable temperature on colder and warmer days.

Following the above tips will help ensure safer driving this winter. But should something go wrong on the road, you can count on our Guardian Angel on Call for reliable roadside assistance. Find out more about what they offer here.