DRIVERS are being warned to check their car components to ensure their vehicle survives the harshness of winter weather.
Motoring experts from LeaseCar.uk are urging drivers to follow their winter vehicle survival guide by checking the engine’s coolness and monitoring oil levels to ensure their safety on the road.
With heavy rain and snowstorms expected over the next few months, the coldness of winter weather can worsen the condition of car components quicker.
Driving in winter can already be quite a challenge for motorists, but following this guide can help to ensure motorists are protected and don’t have to worry about their car breaking down.
Tim Alcock from LeaseCar.uk said: “Winter can be one of the toughest times for drivers on the road as the disruptive change in weather can damage a vehicle’s durability.
Winter-proofing your car by regularly checking tyre pressure and knowing what to look out for when the car battery is damaged can not only prevent you from serious harm but other drivers too.
“This useful guide will help motorists prepare for the winter cold and which noticeable red flags to look out for when hitting the roads.”
Here is LeaseCar.uk‘s winter vehicle guide to keep safe and protect your car:
1. Tyres
In colder weather, tyre pressure tends to drop drastically and if you notice your car starting to sway, this could be down to underinflation. Tyre pressure decreases every 10 degrees, so it’s vital to check the levels every two weeks and inflate when needed, otherwise it can lead to difficulties when braking and accelerating.
2. Oil
Oil tends to thicken in chilly temperatures, which can make it difficult to pump through the engine. It’s recommended to use 5W30 oil in winter to help with thinning the oil to ensure the car runs smoothly.
3. Car battery
Turn on the car for a few minutes before setting off to decrease the chances of the batteries stalling. Once the temperature drops, less power will be omitted which can make it difficult to start the vehicle up in the cold winter mornings. If the problem repeatedly happens, immediately take it to a mechanic, as it could mean the battery has broken from the cold and will need replacing.
4. Bulbs
As the days get darker throughout winter, make sure the front lights and brake lights are fully working before setting off on your journey. Lights not only give us a clear view of the road but they ensure we’re visible to other drivers. Failure to check your lights can lead to a fixed fine if your brake lights aren’t working; if broken visit the nearer garage as soon as possible.
5. Heating
The feeling of warming up in the car when the weather is freezing outside is indescribable, however it can become quite easy for the heating to stop working during these conditions. This will mean there is a fault with the engine coolant, which could be blocked or even worse, a leak, which would mean it needs to be taken in for repairs.
