Tis the season to pack your winter emergency kit and place it in the boot, ready for any long delays during the winter weather. Along with your emergency winter kit, here at Universal Tyres we recommend you thoroughly prepare your car for the harsh winter ahead. Here’s a few suggestions from our experienced mechanics.

Have your car serviced

A professional mechanic is qualified to inspect every major component of your car and check it for damage and wear. Not only that, they can monitor every fluid level and replace or top up fluids as required. A professional service is therefore second to none when it comes to ensuring your car is in top condition, ready to face the winter.

If your car is due for a service, get it done before the temperature drops and conditions worsen. The higher likelihood of breaking down or getting stuck means that a service is imperative at this time of year, especially if you’ve not had one in recent memory.

Check the battery

Your first priority is the battery. Electrical items do not like the cold and if your battery is already weak then the lower temperatures may well finish it off. Nobody likes the sound of a dead battery failing to start their car. So, get it checked out and replaced if necessary.

Top up the engine coolant with antifreeze

Over time your engine coolant becomes diluted and in sub-zero temperatures this can be detrimental to your engine. The coolant and water mix should be 50/50. Overheating causes enormous amounts of strain on the engine and leads to an expensive repair bill, and so too does water freezing inside your cooling system.

Check your tyres

Tyres are responsible for steering and braking duties. As such, their job is never more important than in winter. Check the pressures are correct and that you have enough tyre tread depth to meet the minimum tread depth that is mandated by law. You must have 1.8mm of tread for your tyres to be road legal. Fortunately, there is a very easy way to check you tread depth. Find out how by clicking here.

Clean and maintain your lights

Lights that are broken or obscured are dangerous no matter what conditions you are driving in. Check your headlamps, indicators and rear lights for breaks, blown bulbs and buildups of dirt. Clean and repair as necessary. Your lights keep you visible through rain, fog, sleet and snow, so look after them.

Winter emergency kits

In case of delays on the motorway or an ‘abandon car’ situation, you should always keep these items in the boot of your car:

– A blanket or sleeping bag

– Extra screenwash

– De-icer & ice scraper

– Torch

– Snacks

– Water

– Warm winter coat, hat, scarf & gloves

– Waterproofs

Universal Tyres have over 90 years of experience in delivering car maintenance and repair services to customers throughout London, Essex and the South of England. If you doubt your car is ready to face the harsh conditions of winter, we will be more than happy to offer a comprehensive service. That way you can be certain that you can get from A to B, hassle free. Contact us today to book your service, MOT or motor repair.