Cold weather, road salt and dark mornings are hard on cars. A little preparation in autumn saves time and stress later.
1. Keep your windshield clear
Keep a de-icer spray and a scraper in the car. Check your wiper blades and top up with a winter-rated washer fluid.
2. Protect the paint
Give the car a good wash before winter, then add a layer of wax or ceramic coating spray. It makes salt and grime easier to rinse off.
3. Look after the interior
Wet boots and salt end up inside. Rubber floor mats help, and a trim restorer keeps plastic surfaces from looking dull.
4. Check your tires
Check tire pressure regularly, as it drops in cold weather. Make sure the tread is in good condition, and consider winter tires where conditions require them.
5. Pack a small emergency kit
- a flashlight and spare batteries;
- a phone charger or power bank;
- gloves, a blanket and a small shovel;
- a tire repair kit or inflator.
6. Battery check
Batteries struggle in the cold. If yours is several years old, have it tested before the first frost.