The holiday season is upon us, and as we prepare to celebrate the most magical time of the year, it’s essential not to forget one important aspect of the festivities – our vehicles.
We rely on our cars for many things, from visiting our loved ones and hauling huge loads of gifts and groceries, to travelling to idyllic destinations for winter getaways. Your vehicle plays an important role in making your holiday experiences memorable and convenient.
Christmas carols, twinkling lights, and the warmth of a crackling fire all create a cosy atmosphere, but to truly savour the season, you must make sure that your car is in perfect condition.
As we enter darker, colder evenings, extreme weather conditions can significantly impact your car. The drop in temperature, the potential presence of snow and ice on the roads, and the increased demands on your car for holidays can strain it more than usual.
To help you master winter car care and amp up your Christmas preparations we have compiled a list of four winter car maintenance tips. These tips will help you navigate the challenges the winter months bring.
Let’s check them out!
1. Inspect Your Tyres
Winter car care is crucial, especially when it comes to your tyres. It’s important to pay extra attention to their maintenance during the winter months.
Make sure that they are properly inflated, as often, underinflated tyres can reduce your grip and increase the risk of sliding on icy or wet surfaces. On the other hand, overinflated tyres come with their unique set of dangers, impairing your handling and reducing overall traction.
Additionally, keep a check on the tyre’s tread depth to confirm that it is within the minimum legal limit of 1.6mm. If you notice that the tread has worn below this limit, it’s essential to replace your tyres for your safety and maintain optimal winter driving performance. Therefore, regular tyre inspection and maintenance should be a compulsory inclusion in your winter car maintenance routine.
If you live in or around Northampton, visit In Town Automotive or contact us today to make the most of our professional tyre maintenance services. Our skilled technicians will ensure your tyres are properly maintained.
2. Look After the Battery
Naturally, there is an increase in the usage of car heaters and headlights during the winter months. This increased demand on your car’s electrical system paired with the winter weather can put a strain on your battery and impact its performance.
If it stops working while driving, it can leave you stranded in the cold, which is why it is important to have it checked and replaced if needed. Additionally, investing in a portable jump start pack would be a wise choice, as it reduces the risk of getting stuck with a dead battery.
It can also harm your car’s battery if you leave it unused for a long period in extremely cold weather. To sidestep this issue and keep the battery healthy, drive your car for a few miles every couple of days. Furthermore, use a trickle charger to keep the battery charged and in good condition while it’s not in use. Appropriate car battery winter care makes sure your vehicle works reliably, even in the harshest conditions.
3. Check the Fluid Levels
Another important factor that must be considered in your winter car care plan is regularly checking your car’s fluid levels. For your car to perform well in winter weather, its engine needs to operate smoothly and efficiently.
If your car’s fluid levels start to run low, modern cars often display a warning light to alert you. However, relying solely on the warning light can be risky. By the time it illuminates, potential damage to the engine and cooling system may already have occurred. Instead, make it a habit to check your car’s oil and coolant levels regularly as part of your winter car care.
If you are not equipped with the knowledge or tools to monitor your car’s fluid levels, don’t worry. Bring your car to In Town Automotive, we’ll take care of checking and maintaining your fluid levels to keep your engine running smoothly.
4. Conduct a Winter Car Check
Winter driving can pose a significant threat to your safety, making it necessary to exercise car winter safety tips to tackle icy roads, reduced visibility, and other seasonal challenges. Winter takes its toll on vehicles, but many potential problems and breakdowns can be prevented with regular maintenance. Therefore, it would be wise to schedule your car service before the chill sets in and garages get busy.
Even if your car isn’t due for a routine checkup, consider booking a winter car check before the temperatures drop. These assessments encompass a thorough examination of your car’s battery, tyres, lights, windscreen wipers, and fluid levels to be certain that everything operates as it should.
At In Town Automotive, we specialise in conducting comprehensive winter car checks to make sure your vehicle is in prime condition for any challenging winter conditions.
Get Your Car Winter Ready this Holiday Season by Reaching Out to In Town Automotive
When it comes to safe driving during the winter months, especially when you are in the merry frenzy of the Christmas season, taking care of your vehicle extends far beyond just tyre care. By incorporating these winter car maintenance tips, you can enhance your vehicle’s performance and enjoy safer journeys, even when you are facing the rigours of winter weather.
Should you have any inquiries concerning winter car care and maintenance, do not hesitate to reach out to In Town Automotive. Our expert team is committed to delivering high-quality service, guaranteeing that your vehicle remains in optimal condition to tackle the challenges of the cold season.
We offer comprehensive car maintenance and repair services that include brake repairs, cambelt servicing, DPF cleaning, turbo replacements, and much more. If your car is due for an MOT, we also provide MOT checks. No matter what you need to keep your car jingling all the way, you’ll find it all right here!
To learn more about us, check out our services or contact us to book an appointment today! Wishing you a safe and joyful holiday season on the roads!
bookings@intownautomotive.co.uk