Winter car maintenance tips that can help you save money

14 January 2013

car maintenance, save money

During the coming weeks of ice and snow millions of us will be dependent on our cars to visit friends and family. Avoid expensive call out fees and hours of waiting at the side of the road by minimising the risk of a breakdown in the first place.

 

Remember safety comes before punctuality: Leave ten minutes earlier than normal to avoid being rushed on ice.

 

 

1. Keep your battery well maintained

 

The most common cause for breakdowns are flat or faulty car batteries. A car battery usually lasts no longer than five years, so if you have had your battery for more than 5 years it may be time for a change. 

 

2. Don't get fined

 

Make sure you have good visibility and your car is clear from snow before setting off.

  • Police can fine any motorist who fails to remove loose snow from their vehicles before driving.
  • Snow flying off your car can become a significant danger and cause obstruction to other road users.
  • Police also give fines to motorists who have snow and ice covering there number plates and lights.

3. Windscreen wipers

 

Check that your windscreen wipers are in good condition, and top up your windscreen wash when needed.

 

Make sure that you don't damage your windscreen wipers by using them to remove ice from your windscreen.

 

4. Tyre Tread

 

The quality of tyres has a big impact on the drive-ability. The minimum tyres depth in tyres required by law is 1.6 mm, the AA recommends that motorists have no less than 2mm and preferably 3mm for winter driving. The tread is what disperses lose water and snow from the roads so that you do not aquaplane. A deep tread of 3mm will therefore disperse much more water than a tread of 1.6mm and makes it less likely that you will lose control of your vehicle.

 

5. Do weekly maintenance checks

  • keep an eye on oil levels
  • top up your windscreen wash and anti-freeze
  • check tyre pressure at least once a week; ensuring that they reach the manufacturers recommended levels

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