Basic Car Maintenance for the Upcoming Winter Months
The winter months can be long and harsh, but we all prepare by soaking up as much sun as we can, stocking up on cold medicines to prepare for flu season, and arming our pantries with winter goods. Our cars are no different, so it’s vital to perform some basic car maintenance throughout the winter months to keep your vehicle running smoothly. It can save you in more ways than you realize.
Not really sure where to start? It’s best not to take out winter car maintenance as otherwise you may be in for an unpleasant surprise when you come to start your car one frosty morning whether you are performing the maintenance yourself or need advice on what to get checked and maintained and when below you’ll find a super simple guide on everything you need to tick off when maintaining your car this winter.
Replenish your Car Emergency Kit
You don’t have one, you say? Well now is the time to put together your emergency car kit, and fast. With all the adverse weather in the south recently, it has been a reminder of just how quickly a situation can change and how you need to be prepared for any scenario. An emergency car kit doesn’t need to be huge, but it should contain lifesaving essentials such as nonperishable snacks, water, jump leads, blankets, a flashlight, and even paper maps in case cell phone coverage goes down.
Put on Winter Tires
You wouldn’t walk outside in the snow in your flip-flops, right? So, why would you drive around in the harsh winter conditions with your summer tires either? Having suitable tires for the season is one of the most important factors when it comes to staying safe and prepared in the winter. High-quality, performance winter tires can be found easily online and at stores across the country, so it really is worth investing in the best ones for your vehicle, not just for performance but for your safety too.
Check your Car Lights
Not only is it essential for all your car lights to work, but it is also the law. Ensure your headlights and indicators are working by pulling up to your garage door at night and checking the reflection. If stopped by the police for lights that are not working adequately, you could be fined and receive a penalty notice too.
It’s worth noting that headlights won’t simply stop working immediately. They can fade over time too and become dangerous while driving, even if they look like they are still coming on. Headlight restoration kits can be easily purchased if you’re savvy with basic car maintenance, otherwise, it’s best to leave it to the professionals and get your car checked out.
Clean the License Plate
It may be tempting to let that license plate get covered in mud until it’s no longer visible by cameras, but do you really want the hassle of getting pulled over by the cops for something so minor? Enough is said on this one.
Check Fluid Levels
There are several car fluids that need regular attention, including engine coolant, brake fluid, and windscreen wash. If any of these run low, it could lead to major issues with your vehicle and even pose safety risks. You can easily top them up yourself by purchasing the necessary fluids at a store, or if you’d prefer, stop by a trusted service provider like Prescot Self Drive for a quick winter check. Established in 1978, PSD is a family-owned business known for quality and customer-focused service, offering car and van sales, rentals, MOT testing, commercial servicing, and body repairs to ensure your vehicle is winter-ready.
Conclusion
Overall, winter maintenance on your car can be expensive, and downright annoying, however, you’ll soon be grateful that you made the extra effort when you see another car stranded on the side of the road on a cold and dark winter night. Now is the time to check off those boxes to ensure your vehicle is prepared for the winter months ahead.
