Winter Driving Checklist

As the days grow colder and the nights draw in there are a few simple checks you can make on your car for extra peace of mind over the winter.

• You can expect the road conditions to be increasingly wet or icy, so check all your tyres are in good condition. That means they are properly inflated and have a good amount of tread remaining across the tyre to improve your steering and grip.
• Keep your car windows clean, especially your windscreen. Car windows are prone to misting or fogging over winter, so make sure your air condtioning and window heaters are functioning correctly. And check your wiper blades for correct operation or damage.
• As the temperatures drop the water in your cooling system can freeze, so make sure you keep your coolant antifreeze topped up to avoid breaking seals or pipes.
• Throughout Winter it's vital to see and be seen, so check all your car's lights - indicators, stop lights, internal lights, fog lights and especially your headlights are functioning correctly, clear and bright.
• Keep a window scraper and de-icer handy for those extra frosty mornings, and ensure all your windows are clear and free of ice before starting your journey. And keep your windscreen washer fluid to the correct strength and topped up.
• Winter conditions will make extra demands on your battery. If your car hesitates or struggles when starting get your battery checked and replace if necessary.
• Consider keeping a Winter Emergency Kit in your car. Things like a tow rope, hazard sign, wellie boots & even a snow shovel can come in handy if conditions deteriorate.
• Finally, don't rush. Reduce your speed, check ahead for traffic problems, allow more time for your journeys.