Winter Care Tips for your Used Car
Mark Andrews Used Car Centre have years of experience selling quality used cars across the UK. Here are some essential tips for motorists to help them and their vehicles through the winter months:
Winter magnifies existing problems in cars and so taking the following measures are important.
Have the battery and charging system checked. Cold weather is hard on batteries.
Clean, flush and put new antifreeze in the cooling system. As a general rule of thumb, this should be done every two years.
Ensure car heaters, defrosters and wipers are working. Consider winter wiper blades and use cold weather washer fluid. As a general rule, wiper blades should be replaced every six months.
Check the tire tread depth and tire pressure. If snow and ice are a problem in your area, consider special tires designed to grip slick roads. During winter, tire pressure should be checked weekly.
Have your brakes checked, especially if they are squeaking. The brakes are the vehicle’s most important safety item.
Check to see that exterior and interior lights work and headlights are properly aimed.
Be diligent about changing the oil and filter at recommended intervals. Dirty oil can spell trouble in winter. Consider changing to “winter weight” oil if you live in a cold climate. Have your technician check the fuel, air and transmission filters at the same time.
During winter, it is recommended to keep the petrol tank at least half full at all times to decrease the chances of moisture forming in the gas lines and possibly freezing.
You should check the tire pressure of the spare in the trunk and stock an emergency kit with an ice scraper and snowbrush, jumper cables and torch incase you break down or your battery goes flat. You should also ensure you have breakdown cover, especially during the winter.
Find out more about Mark Andrews Used Car Centre on our website and view our cars. Like Mark Andrews Used Car Centre on our Facebook page and read Mark Andrews Used Car Centre reviews here.
