Last years blog on ‘Preparing your car for winter’ was very popular and therefore we wanted to update our key tips ready for the cold weather coming round again.

Here’s our guide to preparing for Winter driving

1. Breakdown cover

After the year that we have had one of the most important this going into this winter is ensuring you can get home if the worst was to happen and you breakdown. With it looking more likely that restrictions will still be in place over the winter it is no longer a given that all garages, hotels and other amenties would be open to you. Therefore investing in breakdown cover is a sensible option. Even during the national lockdown earlier in the year the Rescue & Recovery Industry was recognised as ‘Key Workers’ within a critical sector.

2. Get your Car Serviced before Winter

Cold causes problems for cars but up to half of the problems could have been prevented by a regular servicing. Save yourself the cost and inconvenience and if possible book your car in for a service now. In winter, lots of garages offer discounted or even free ‘winter car checks’ so take advantage of some of these which may be local to you.

3. Battery check

Lights, heaters and blowers suffer from almost double the use in winter. Checking your battery should always be priority. If your car is having trouble when starting, get the battery checked out as soon as possible.

4. Check those Tyres

Your vehicles tyres are important for both braking and steering. It is essential to keep them in good condition. Despite the legal minimum of a 1.6mm depth, we advise that you stick to a minimum of 3mm during winter. This just helps improve the grip of your car on ice and snow.

5. Give your Windscreen a check

Before winter, give your windscreen a thorough check for any cracks and chips. During winter, water can seep into these cracks, freeze and then cause expansion. Getting anything repaired before this can happen can save lots of money.

6. Breakdown Kit

In case of emergency, we advise carrying a breakdown kit in your car during winter. This kit should include some of these essentials if not all:

• Torch
• Blanket
• Shovel
• Hi-vis vest
• Food and water
• De-icer and scraper
• Phone charger/Power bank

7. Prepare!

If you know you need to be somewhere at a specific time, plan your journey ahead. Check for any road closures or delays and allow plenty of time for your journey. Being in a rush when the weather is bad increases your chances of being in a road car accident – so be prepared!