Preparing Your Vehicle For Winter

Winter has well and truly set in for the UK so as temperatures take a tumble and we see less daylight it’s no secret people are preparing themselves for the cold weather ahead. From getting out the winter bedding to cranking up the heating to keep away that winter chill, there are countless procedures we undertake to keep ourselves warm and healthy. Whilst we’re always busy thinking about ourselves in winter it’s quite easy to forget we need to prepare our vehicles for winter also.

So we’re here to ask you, do you even think about the huge effect the winter weather can have on your vehicles ? We just want to remind you that colder weather usually means worse conditions on the road, more snow and ice simply means that you should definitely be maintaining your vehicle’s suspension system. Even though your vehicle was in tip top shape during summer, maybe the underside simply can’t cope with the challenges this winter.

We are under no illusion that winter weather damages the roads, the constant rain, snow and freezing can cause water to seep into the pavements and expand causing cracks and potholes, and these areas are accidents waiting to happen. Winter brings nothing positive for the roads unfortunately, so the potential risk of damaging your vehicle’s suspension system is huge. Let’s not forget the added debris and rubbish on the roads during the winter months.

Suspension is ultimately designed to create an all round smoother driving experience, so if your vehicle is having to work harder during the winter it’s only natural it will need some TLC.

You should be checking many parts of your vehicle to prepare this winter including tire pressure, fluid levels, tire alignment, windscreen fluid, oil and the need for antifreeze in your radiator system. It’s just as important to check your vehicle’s suspension system before you tackle the harsh conditions this winter, otherwise dragging and slumping could arise before you even notice a problem.

It’s best to park your vehicle on a level surface and inspect how it’s looking from ground level, check for tilting to one side this may be caused by loose or damaged leaf springs. It’s much easier to spot damage in winter than summer, check the vehicle front to back and from side to side.

It’s no secret that driving in bad weather conditions isn’t fun, snowy and icy conditions can be dangerous and unpredictable even when the gritters have been out. Even if you’re driving a larger vehicle problems can still arise such as skidding and sliding. You can prepare this winter by repairing, replacing or even upgrading your vehicle’s leaf springs. You may also want to invest in studded or snow tyres. Replace your windscreen wipers and make sure your fluid is fully loaded.

You need to be aware that salt on the road can also damage your vehicle’s wheels and undercarriage leaving a corrosive residue. This can cause metal or other materials to erode or become extremely damaging, take the time to clean your vehicle regularly and thoroughly.