From Brake Repair to Routine Servicing

With winter fast approaching, now is the time to think carefully about your car and whether it’s roadworthy and prepared to drive safely throughout the colder months. With limited daylight hours and harsh weather conditions, preparing your car for winter is essential to prevent road traffic accidents - and there’s no better time than now to get started. From putting your vehicle in for brake repair to finding mechanics to take care of routine servicing, here are five important ways to prepare your car for winter.

Book your car in for routine servicing

If your car hasn’t been for a service in the last few months, it’s vitally important to book in for routine servicing before winter well and truly sets in. During the service, your chosen mechanics will be able to identify any issues that require attention, before nipping them in the bud as soon as possible. This can help you avoid dangerous accidents and prevent frustrating and costly issues from developing during the busiest (and typically most expensive) time of the year.

Test your car lights

Now more than ever, it’s vital that your car lights are operating properly. Driving in the dark without strong vehicle lights is very dangerous, so test these now and have them repaired if they dim or flicker while driving.

Book in for brake repair services

If you’re experiencing any issues with your brakes, now is the time to have them inspected and repaired by a professional. This is always extremely important, but especially during winter when heavy rainfall, frost and wind can limit your visibility and make it difficult to drive safely. Protect yourself and other drivers by booking in for brake repair services if you need them.

Replace worn or damaged car tyres 

You should also take the time to inspect your car tyres for any signs of damage, including bulges and cuts. On top of this, you must check that your tyres meet the minimum legal tread depth requirements of 1.6 millimetres. This must span the central three-quarters of the tread around the circumference of the tyre and can be tested using a tread depth gauge. 

If your tyres are worn or don’t meet the minimum tread depth requirements, take them to your nearest mechanics to be repaired. Winter-ready tyres are essential to help you keep control of the vehicle on slippery roads. 

Top up your car with engine coolant

As temperatures change, it’s also recommended that you top up your engine with coolant. This will help your engine run smoothly even during periods of extremely cold winter by preventing the water in your car’s cooling system from freezing. 

Looking for Ayr-based professionals to help you prepare your car for winter? Caledonia Vehicle Solutions is here for you. In addition to selling a wide range of used cars, we’re also proud to offer comprehensive car maintenance services, including routine servicing, brake repair, tyre replacement and MOT testing. 

To learn more about our car maintenance services or to book your car in with our team of professionals, please don’t hesitate to contact us today.