Get Your Car Ready for Winter

With busy lives, it’s easy to forget to check your car — but making sure your vehicle is safe for winter is really important.Cold, wet, icy and snowy weather can cause problems if you and your car aren’t prepared. A few simple checks can help you stay safe and avoid breakdowns or accidents.

Follow the F.O.R.C.E.S. check

An easy way to remember is to look at is the word FORCES.

F – Fuel

Make sure you have enough fuel for your journey.Cars use more fuel in cold weather, heavy traffic, and stop-start driving. If the weather changes or your trip takes longer than planned, you don’t want to run out. It’s a good idea to fill up before you set off.

O – Oil

Check your oil level using the dipstick under your car’s bonnet.If it’s low, top it up using the correct oil for your car (check your car handbook if you’re not sure).Don’t overfill, and make sure the oil cap is closed tightly afterwards.

R – Rubber (Tyres and Wipers)

Tyres:Check your tyre tread and air pressure.Good tyres help your car grip the road in wet or icy weather.The legal minimum tread in the UK is 1.6mm, but in winter it’s safer to have at least 3mm. You can test your tread with a 20p coin – if you can’t see the outer band of the coin, your tread is safe.Check tyres every two weeks and before long trips.

Wipers:Make sure your windscreen wipers work properly and aren’t damaged.Spray washer fluid and test them – if they leave streaks or miss patches, change them.Run your fingers gently along the blades to check for splits.Wiper blades should be replaced about once a year.

C – Coolant (antifreeze)

Coolant is a mix of water and antifreeze that helps stop your engine from overheating or freezing.Check the level when the engine is cold – it should be between the min and max marks on the tank.If it drops suddenly, visit a garage as there could be a leak.

E – Electrics

Check that your headlights, brake lights, and indicators all work. Replace any bulbs that don’t.Battery problems are very common in winter.If your car struggles to start or the lights dim, get your battery tested – it may need replacing.Batteries usually last a few years depending on use.

S – Screen wash

Top up your screen wash with winter-grade fluid that works down to -15°C.This helps stop it from freezing and keeps your windscreen clean from salt and dirt.Avoid just using water – it can freeze and damage your washer system.

Be Prepared – Make a Winter Car Kit

Keep a small winter kit in your car in case of emergencies. Here are some useful items to include:

• Ice scraper and de-icer

• Jump leads

• Reflective warning triangle (ideally two)

• Blanket and warm coat

Sunglasses (for glare from snow)

Dont forget: In-car phone charger or portable power bank

If you travel long distances or in rural areas, add:

• A torch and spare batteries

• Snacks and bottled water

• First aid kit

• Small shovel

• If you take regular medications make sure you have a supply with you if needed

Stay Safe and Ready

A few minutes spent checking your car now can save you a lot of trouble later.Stay prepared, stay safe, and enjoy worry-free winter driving.