Every motorist will know the importance of keeping their car in proper working order. However, in the UK, this isn't always as easy as it seems - particularly during winter.
The colder months can wreak havoc on our vehicles, and while we're now into February, we're not out of the woods just yet. Persistent low temperatures and wet conditions can affect different aspects of your vehicle's performance.
But knowing which cold weather checks to carry out and remembering how to perform them can be confusing.
Matthew Briggs, CEO at Right Fuel Card, has put together a guide covering the most crucial cold weather tasks every driver should know about.
He says there's one issue that's the 'most common cause' of a winter breakdown - but being attentive when you start the vehicle can help you to identify any potential problems before they emerge, reports the Express.
Matthew explained: "Battery problems are one of the most common causes of winter breakdowns. Cold weather reduces battery efficiency, especially if your car goes unused for a day or two.
"When starting your car, pay attention to how the engine turns over. If it starts slowly or struggles to start, this can be a sign of a weak battery. Dim headlights or dashboard lights can also indicate battery issues."
If you want to conduct a basic visual inspection, lift the bonnet and look for corrosion around the battery terminals, which appears as a white or bluish powder. Loose connections can also cause starting problems.
Matthew continued: "If your battery is more than three to five years old, or you notice repeated starting issues, be sure to have it checked by a professional before it fails completely."
However, it's not just your vehicle's battery that can struggle throughout winter. Tyres are another vital safety element, making it essential to maintain them properly.
Matthew noted: "Cold temperatures can cause tyre pressure to drop, while wet or icy roads increase the need for good grip."
A quick way to ensure your tyres remain in good condition is checking the pressure. The expert outlined: "Start by checking tyre pressure using a tyre pressure gauge or an air pump at a fuel station. Compare the reading with the manufacturer's recommended pressure, usually found inside the driver's door frame or in the vehicle handbook. Every tyre will need to be checked, including a spare if you have one.
"Next, check tread depth. You can do this using a tread depth gauge or the edge of a 20p coin. If the coin's outer rim is visible when placed in the tread, your tyres may be too worn. Although the legal minimum tread depth is 1.6mm, winter driving is safer with more tread, allowing for more tread on wet or icy roads."