All drivers will know how important it is to always ensure your car is in good condition. But in the UK, this isn't always as easy as it sounds - especially during winter.
The colder months can wreak havoc on our cars, and although we're now in February, we're not out of the woods quite yet. Ongoing low temperatures and damp conditions can significantly impact various parts of your vehicle's operation. But knowing what cold weather checks to do and remembering how to do them can be confusing.
Matthew Briggs, CEO at Right Fuel Card, has put together a guide of the most important cold weather tasks all drivers should be aware of.
He says there's one thing that's the 'most common cause' of a winter breakdown - but being really observant when you start the car can help you to pinpoint any potential issues before they crop up.
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 carry out a basic visual check, open 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 added: "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."
But it's not just your car's battery that can suffer during the winter. Tyres are another very important safety component, so it's crucial to take good care of them.
Matthew said: "Cold temperatures can cause tyre pressure to drop, while wet or icy roads increase the need for good grip."
A quick way to make sure your tyres are in good condition is to check the pressure. The pro explained: "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."
