Avoid a winter breakdown in five easy steps

GEM Motoring Assist offers simple tips for drivers to ensure trouble-free journeys this winter

Giving some attention now to batteries, tyres, antifreeze, wipers, lights and other car essentials is the best way of ensuring reliability in the months to come, says GEM. 

The last thing anyone needs is to break down on a chilly morning. Prevention is always better than cure, so by paying some attention to basic winter maintenance needs, you have the best chance of ensuring you don’t get stranded out in the cold.

Here are five simple steps for reducing the chance of a breakdown this winter: 

Get your batteries checked

1. Get the battery and charging system checked to ensure best performance. A large number of winter calls to GEM’s breakdown control centre relate to flat batteries. Cold weather puts a lot of strain on tired batteries, so consider changing it now to avoid the inconvenience of a breakdown. 

Make sure you've checked your levels

2. Ensure your car’s cooling system has the correct levels of anti-freeze, which is vital to prevent the water in your engine’s cooling system from freezing. GEM recommends you consult your local dealer or a qualified mechanic to ensure this is done correctly. 

Check your tread

3. Check tyre tread depth and pressure weekly through the winter. Good tyres will ensure the safety systems on your car are as effective as possible. GEM recommends a minimum tread depth of 3mm (the legal minimum is 1.6mm), as this will disperse much more water from the road and will minimise your risk of skidding and losing control. 

Test your lights

4. Make sure all the lights on your car, inside and out, are working properly. Clean them regularly to ensure they are free of dirt, so that you can see, and others can see you.

Need new wipers?

5. Do you need new windscreen wipers at front and rear? Check for efficient working and use cold weather washer fluid. Do not use the windscreen wipers to clear ice, as this will very quickly lead to damage.

Read our related blogs:

Storing petrol over winter

Planning for safer winter journeys

Winter weather hazards for drivers

Six top tips for keeping safe on roads this winter

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