Breakdowns in Winter – Our Top Tips!

It’s common knowledge that cold weather affects the functioning of most things. It slows everything down, and makes things work a little less efficiently – including ourselves! And when it comes to our cars, there is no difference. Due to widespread ice, frost and snow, it is far more likely that your car will break down during the winter months than any other time of year.

With 10% of people claiming they are not confident that their car will survive a winter breakdown, it’s time to get a little wiser so you can give your car the best chance of surviving winter 2014/2015.

Top causes for breakdowns

The RAC analysed the 2.4 million calls they received during the winter to see what the most common culprits were for winter breakdowns. The results showed the top 5 causes were:

  • Battery faults
  • Tyre problems
  • Engine management
  • Mechanical failures
  • Electrical faults

10 Essential Things You Should Keep in Your Car - Auto Exhaust & Tyres

How can you prevent a breakdown?

Battery

Batteries do not last forever, and those that are more than 5 years old will struggle more in the cold weather. So, if you know your battery has not been replaced or checked in a while, book it in to avoid any unwanted faults occurring in the future.

Fuel

Due to the disruptive weather and the increased amount of traffic on the roads – especially around Christmas time – there are higher risks of delays. Make sure you always have at least a quarter of a tank full of petrol, so you aren’t caught out if stuck in a huge traffic jam!

Antifreeze

It’s important to check the coolant levels on a regular basis. This will prevent the water in the cooling system from freezing when temperatures plummet. Make sure it is at the correct level, and if it isn’t, then top it up with the right type of antifreeze for your vehicle. The concentrate will need to be diluted so it is a solution of half concentrate and half water.

Tyres

With slippery road conditions in the winter, you need to have at least a minimum of 3mm tread of all tyres. It is also advised that you check the tyre pressure against the manufacturers’ guidelines – you could even consider winter tyres for extra safety this winter! If you need new tyres or are unsure how to check, then come and see us as soon as possible.

Lights

From driving in rain, sleet, mud, snow and any other winter weather, your car will become noticeably dirtier than usual. Clean the lights to make sure you remain as visible as possible at all times.

Screen wash

Try and use a good quality screen wash to avoid the chances of it freezing over when frosty weather heads your way. Again, mix a concentrate with water for a 50/50 solution.

Doors and locks

Cover the surrounding rubber seal of all doors and the boot with a layer of vaseline. For your locks, apply a small amount of WD-40 to stop them freezing over.

Emergency Supplies

As well as carrying out these checks, it is highly recommended that you always keep an emergency bag full of essential equipment, should you find yourself in a tricky situation. Your emergency bag should include:

  • Mobile phone charger
  • Blankets
  • Snow shovel
  • Torch
  • Salt or sand
  • De-icer and an ice scraper
  • Jump leads for your battery
  • Bottle of water
  • Snacks
  • Screen wash
  • First aid kit

So before setting off in your car, particularly if it’s a long journey to a remote area, then you should definitely use our handy tips to make sure you have a safe journey, and are fully prepared for all eventualities!

 

For more information about our auto services, please do not hesitate to contact the friendly and helpful team at Auto Exhausts and Tyres.