Winter Car Maintenance Tips

Winter demands exceptional car maintenance so that the vehicle does not breakdown halfway through the commute. Of course, while it is not quite difficult to get help onsite, or even a lift to the required destination with the right car insurance, some of the UK roads may be a bit tough to tackle or encounter in winter, which primarily depends on the local weather conditions.

Almost all components of the cars need good care for the vehicle to respond to the road conditions, and especially for car insurance providers to compensate any repairs needed to get the vehicle back on the road. 

Apart from the standard maintenance routine to ensure visibility, clear windscreen and windows, it is important to pay extra care to the battery, tyres, radiator, brakes and the anti-freeze feature of the vehicle. 

Battery

Car batteries work harder in winter to cope with the heat generated within the vehicles. Along with internal lights and other electrical components, blowers that are used for improving visibility cause the batteries to quickly lose steam, forcing drivers to call their car insurance providers for help. Going easy on the electrical features, checking the terminals for signs of corrosion, and regular recharging to keep the unit functional will help make the drive smooth.

Anti-freeze

It is essential to refill the radiators with prescribed amount of anti-freeze for preventing the coolant from freezing up in the engine or radiator, which can cause the engine to heat up and eventually breakdown. Off-the-shelf anti-freeze products may not go well with the engine, and it is important to check with the dealer for the suitable brand and concentration before attempting a refill.

Brakes

Impeccable braking is a must when challenging logged up loose snow and slippery water, or frozen roads that are typical of UK winters. Electronic dashboards often indicate the status of the brakes. It is a must to randomly test the brakes during the drive, whenever clear of a wet patch, to ensure that they are functional throughout the journey.

Tyres

Tyre pressure and treads are two other important factors that ensure a stable drive on slippery roads. Pressure should meet manufacturer-recommended levels at all times. Tyre tread depths, though legally set at 1.6mm, may not be really sufficient to beat the water and loose snow during winter. Maintaining a 2-3mm tread depth during winter or opting for custom winter tyres to tackle the seasonal challenges will ensure that the journey is safe.

Winter maintenance should also address oil levels, windscreen clarity and visibility, and the health of the windscreen wipers. A handy stock of windscreen wash also helps restore visibility during the trip.

Winter is the time when the car insurance actually kicks into action. It is probably time to review the policy depending on how well it compensates for emergency winter repairs and handles breakdowns. Those looking to renew or switch their car insurance policy might as well trade their cheap car insurance for better ones that offer more extensive cover to meet seasonal requirements. 

Simply search and get car insurance quotes onlinefrom a set of reputed insurance providers. Compare the offers carefully based on previous experience and settle for a suitable policy that not only offers protection against accidents and damage, but also attends breakdown calls on-site and arranges alternate transport to the preferred location (in a cost-effective manner!).

However, do remember that most car insurance schemes require the car to be maintained in good shape, so that they can be used to honour the claims made by the policy holder. 

2013-02-19 12:56:47

Source: http://luxvelocity.typepad.com/luxvelocity/2013/02/winter-car-maintenance-tips.html