With winter fast approaching, it’s time to start thinking about how the colder weather can affect your car. Chilly days, freezing nights, heavy rain, frost, and even hail can take a toll on your vehicle, so ensuring it’s in top condition is crucial to avoid breakdowns or accidents during the winter motoring season. Here are some essential tips for preparing your car for winter and keeping it running smoothly through the colder months.
Battery Care
One of the most common causes of winter breakdowns is a faulty or weak battery. Cold weather puts additional strain on your vehicle’s electrical components, from the lights to the heater, which increases the demand on your battery. To avoid being stranded with a dead battery, it’s important to take preventative steps:
- Check Battery Terminals: Ensure the battery terminals are clean and free from corrosion. A simple way to prevent corrosion is to apply petroleum jelly to the terminals. If corrosion is present, it can often be wiped away with a cloth, but excessive build-up may require professional attention.
- Battery Testing: If your car has been experiencing electrical issues or you’ve noticed the battery struggling to start the engine, it’s a good idea to have the battery tested. This will determine if it’s still holding a charge or if it needs to be replaced.
Lights
Visibility is crucial during winter, particularly during heavy rain, fog, and darker mornings and evenings. Having fully functioning headlights and brake lights will not only help you see better but also ensure other drivers can see you on the road.
- Check All Lights: Regularly inspect your headlights, taillights, brake lights, and indicators to make sure all bulbs are working correctly. Replace any faulty bulbs immediately and keep spare globes in your glove box for emergencies.
- Inspect Light Covers: Look for cracks in the light covers. Water can seep into cracks and corrode the electrical components, leading to further damage and malfunctions.
Windscreen and Wipers
A clear windscreen is essential for safe driving, especially in wet or icy conditions. Poor visibility is one of the leading causes of accidents during winter, so ensuring your windscreen and wipers are in good condition is a must.
- Inspect Wipers: Check your windscreen wipers for any signs of wear, such as cracks or disintegration. If they aren’t effectively removing water from your windscreen, replace them before the rainy season begins.
- Top Up Washer Fluid: Ensure your windscreen washer reservoir is filled with proper cleaner, as this will help keep your windscreen clear and free from debris. Avoid using plain water, which can freeze in cold conditions.
- Check for Cracks: Inspect your windscreen for any cracks or chips. Cold weather can cause small cracks to expand, potentially leading to further damage. Address any windscreen damage as soon as possible.
Tyre Safety
Your tyres are the only point of contact between your car and the road, making their condition critical, especially in wet, slippery winter conditions.
- Tyre Pressure: Cold weather can cause tyre pressure to drop, which affects handling and braking. Ensure your tyres are properly inflated according to the manufacturer’s recommendations.
- Tread Depth: The tread on your tyres needs to be at least 1.5mm deep across the entire surface. Adequate tread depth helps to disperse water and reduce the risk of aquaplaning. If your tyres are worn, it’s time to consider replacing them.
Heaters and Defrosters
Cold mornings are uncomfortable enough without a faulty heater or defroster. Your car’s air conditioning system not only keeps you warm but also plays a crucial role in defrosting your windscreen, ensuring you have a clear view before setting off.
- Test the Heater: Before winter sets in, turn on your car’s heater to make sure it’s working effectively. If you notice any issues, such as weak airflow or no heat, book a service appointment to fix the problem.
- Check Air Conditioning for Defrosting: Even though it's cold outside, your air conditioning is essential for defrosting windows quickly. Ensure the gas in your air conditioning system is at the proper level to avoid any defrosting issues.
Store Your Car Undercover
Where possible, keeping your car in a garage or under shelter is highly recommended during the winter months. Parking your car outside can expose it to condensation, frost, and moisture, which can lead to several issues, including rust and problems with the engine and ignition system.
- Prevent Condensation: Parking indoors or under a carport will reduce condensation, which can cause engine ignition problems and lead to rusting over time.
- Avoid Frost Buildup: Keeping your car undercover will also prevent frost from forming on your windscreen and windows, saving you time and effort in the morning.
Regular Servicing for Winter
Winter is a demanding time for your vehicle, which is why regular servicing is more important than ever. During a car service, a professional mechanic can check all the critical components, from your battery and brakes to your wipers and tyres. A thorough inspection ensures your car is in top condition and ready to handle the challenging winter conditions.
- Fluid Levels: Your mechanic will check all fluid levels, including oil, coolant, and brake fluid, to ensure everything is topped up and functioning as it should. This helps prevent overheating and engine damage, which can be more common in colder weather.
- Brakes: Brakes should be inspected to ensure they are working properly, as wet and slippery roads increase the need for effective braking.
- Tyre Inspection: Your mechanic will check for signs of wear and ensure your tyres are safe for winter driving, providing peace of mind on slick roads.
Stay Safe and Winter-Ready with Westside Auto Service
Preparing your car for winter is essential to avoid breakdowns and keep you safe on the road during the colder months. From checking your battery and lights to ensuring your tyres are in good condition, following these steps will help protect your vehicle from the elements and ensure it runs smoothly all winter long. But the best way to ensure your car is ready for the challenges of winter is by getting a professional service.
At Westside Auto Service, we offer comprehensive winter car servicing and repair options to keep your vehicle in peak condition. Don’t wait for a breakdown or a problem to arise—book your service today and drive confidently through the winter months. Contact us at [insert contact details] or visit us online to schedule your winter car service. Additionally, if you’re in the market for a reliable used car, visit Westside Auto Wholesale in Perth. We have a wide range of high-quality used vehicles that have been thoroughly inspected, giving you peace of mind and ensuring your car is winter-ready from day one.
