IS YOUR CAR READY FOR THE BIG FREEZE THIS WINTER?

It’s that time of year again – when everybody is dusting off their winter boots, gloves and scarves and bracing themselves for the cold weather outside. 

However, while it’s easy for us to prepare ourselves for the winter ahead, have you thought about how you can do the same for your car? 

Cold weather, dark nights and busy streets can introduce more hazards than usual into everyday journeys, so it’s important to pay extra attention to your vehicle’s health and carry out a few simple checks before you set off onto the roads.

Local car dealership Heartlands Ford has compiled a handy list of pre-journey checks that you can make yourself to minimise the chances of being involved in an accident or breakdown this winter: 

Check your brakes

Look for any signs of wear and tear; listen for squeaks and pump brakes with your foot, taking note if they feel ‘spongy’. If in doubt, get them checked by a professional. 

Tyres

Ice can seriously affect your tyres’ ability to grip the road so it’s important to check that each tyre tread is at least 1.6mm. Ideally you will have between 2-3mm of tread left during the winter. You should also ensure that all tyres are pumped up to the correct pressure, according to your manufacturer’s specification (this will usually be listed inside your car door when opened up).

Top up your anti-freeze 

Check which sort of antifreeze is best for your car and make sure that your radiator is topped up. Usually, you will need to create a 50-50 mix of both antifreeze and water.

Oil 

Check the oil levels regularly and keep topped up to avoid any damage to your engine. 

Battery

Check your battery before the cold weather really starts to set in. You may want to consider replacing it if it is more than five years old – particularly if you own an older car which has problems starting from cold. Excessive use of lights and heaters can also drain a battery, which is why battery failures are one of the most common breakdown faults during winter. 

Lights 

Low visibility for yourself and other drivers is a common cause of accidents. Ensure that all lights, including indicators, fog lights and brake lights are working properly and are wiped clean of any mud, snow or spray. 

Windscreen and windows 

Again, to combat poor visibility, keep your windscreens topped up with water and screen wash. Take the opportunity to check the condition of your wiper blades and ensure that they clear the screen effectively. 

Servicing 

It’s good practice to put your car in for a service at this time of the year, particularly if you haven’t had one in a while. This will ensure that your car is in tip top condition to keep you going and won’t leave you out in the cold.

To encourage drivers to put safety first this winter, Heartlands Ford is offering a great ‘Value Service’ to owners of Ford vehicles aged three years old or more. 

Available at any dealership or Rapid Fit centre, the £99 Ford Value Service includes an oil change, new oil filter and new air filter as well as a comprehensive Visual Health Check covering more than 25 vital maintenance and safety assessments. 

Among the items examined are the brakes, clutch, seat belts, tyres, steering, suspension links, drive shafts, wheel bearings, transmission, wheel nuts and several major engine components, including the cooling system. 

For more advice on preparing your car for winter or to book your car in for a service with Ford-trained technicians, call into or visit your nearest Heartlands Ford dealership or service centre: 

Heartlands Ford, 971 Kingsbury Road, Erdington, Birmingham. Tel: 0121 377 3000 Heartlands Ford, Aldridge Road, Perry Barr, Birmingham. Tel: 0121 344 5252 Heartlands Ford, Saxon Drive, Tamworth, Staffordshire. Tel: 01827 306700 

Alternatively, visit Heartlands Ford at www.heartlands-ford.co.uk