We're finally starting to feel festive - and we had snow yesterday! We are READY for the snowmen and the snowball fights – but is your car ready for the ice, snow and slush?
Just these few simple checks could make sure you're fully prepared for any weather!
Luckily, we've got an easy-to-remember acronym - use FORCES:
Fuel: make sure you have enough fuel for your journey. There's never a good time to break down, but below-zero weather is definitely one of the worst!
Oil: check your oil level using the dip stick and top up if required. Be careful not to overfill, and replace the cap firmly when done.
Rubber: check your wiper blades, tyre tread depth and air pressure. The legal tyre tread depth for cars in the UK and Europe is 1.6mm - but ideally 3mm in icy or wet conditions.
Coolant: coolant (a mixture of water and antifreeze) is pumped around your engine to cool it. Check your engine coolant level and top-up if necessary.
Electrics: check that your lights and indicators are working properly, replacing bulbs or fuses if needed.
Screen wash: top up your screenwash with a product that is effective down to at least -15 degrees Celsius. This helps to avoid visibility issues and a frozen windscreen.
