Prepare Your Car for Winter: Essential Maintenance for Lights, Wipers, and Tyres

As the days get shorter and the colder months approach, it’s essential to ensure your vehicle is ready for the challenging conditions that come with winter.

With reduced daylight, rain, frost, and even snow on the horizon, making sure your lights, wipers, and tyres are in top shape can help keep you safe and prevent unnecessary breakdowns.

At West Heath Garage, we understand the importance of winter vehicle maintenance and have put together some tips to keep your car in optimal condition as we head into the colder months.

1. Lights: Stay Bright and Visible

With the darker evenings, having properly functioning lights is more critical than ever. Not only do your headlights help you see the road ahead, but they also ensure you are visible to other drivers. Here are a few things to check:

• Headlights and Fog Lights: Ensure your headlights are working correctly and providing sufficient brightness. Consider upgrading to brighter bulbs for better visibility in foggy or misty conditions. Don’t forget to check your fog lights too.
• Indicators and Brake Lights: It’s easy to overlook your indicators and brake lights, but these are crucial for communicating with other road users. A regular check can prevent accidents, especially on dark, slippery roads.
• Clean Lenses: Dirt and grime can build up on your lights, reducing their effectiveness. Regularly clean your light covers to ensure they are shining as brightly as possible.

If you’re unsure whether your lights are performing at their best, visit West Heath Garage for a quick check, and we can replace any faulty bulbs for you.

2. Wipers: Clear Vision in Wet Weather

Rain is more frequent in winter, and without properly functioning wipers, your visibility can quickly become compromised. Wiper blades should clear your windscreen effectively without leaving streaks or smudges. Here’s what to look out for:

• Worn or Split Blades: Wiper blades wear out over time, especially with constant use. If they are splitting or leaving streaks, it’s time for a replacement.
• Washer Fluid: Ensure your washer fluid is topped up and contains antifreeze to prevent it from freezing during cold weather.

At West Heath Garage, we can supply and fit new wiper blades to ensure your windscreen remains clear, no matter the weather.

3. Tyres: Grip and Safety in All Conditions

Your tyres are your vehicle’s only contact with the road, making them critical for safe winter driving. As the roads become wet and icy, ensuring your tyres have the right tread depth and pressure is essential.

• Tread Depth: In the UK, the legal minimum tread depth is 1.6mm, but in winter, it’s recommended to have at least 3mm for optimal grip on slippery roads.
• Tyre Pressure: Cold weather can reduce tyre pressure, which can affect your car’s handling and fuel efficiency. Regularly check and adjust your tyre pressure to the manufacturer’s recommended levels.
• Winter Tyres: If you live in an area prone to snow or ice, you may want to consider switching to winter tyres for extra grip and stability.

At West Heath Garage, we offer tyre checks and replacements, ensuring your tyres are safe for winter driving. We can also help you switch to winter tyres if needed.

Book Your Winter Vehicle Check at West Heath Garage

At West Heath Garage, we’re here to help you get your car ready for the winter months. Our expert team can carry out a full check, including lights, wipers, and tyre inspections, to ensure your vehicle is safe and prepared for the changing weather conditions.

Don’t wait until the cold sets in – contact us today to book your maintenance check and keep your car in top condition this season!

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