As summer bids farewell and autumn approaches, it's time to shift gears and prepare for changing weather. Don't overlook the importance of vehicle maintenance - neglecting this aspect could lead to unexpected breakdowns and pricey repairs not covered by insurance. To keep your vehicle in top shape, consider these essential autumn readiness tips.
1. Inspect your tyres
As the outside temperature drops, your car's tyre pressure may decrease, leading to increased wear and safety risks. Regardless of the season, It's crucial to regularly inspect your tyres for bald patches and ensure correct pressure for both front and rear tyres at the manufacturer's recommended level. Worn tires with insufficient tread depth offer less grip on wet roads, increasing the likelihood of accidents. While the legal minimum tread depth is 1.6mm, many manufacturers recommend 3mm for enhanced safety.
2. Check all your lights work
With shorter days in autumn, drivers use car lights more frequently. Before heading into the darker months, it's crucial to ensure all lights are working properly. Check indicators, side lights, headlights, brake lights, and reversing lights, including their settings like full beam and fog lights. Make sure to replace any broken or damaged lights promptly to ensure visibility and safety during night driving.
It is also a good idea to clean all lights to remove any grime or debris that reduces their brightness. This improves your visibility on the road for safe driving.
3. Clean your windscreen and windows
As autumn brings low sun and potential visibility issues, it's crucial to clean your windows thoroughly. Summer dust and bugs accumulate, and attempts to clean while driving may worsen the situation. Before poor weather sets in, wash each window inside and out to ensure clear visibility. This not only addresses immediate concerns but also prepares for the challenges of autumn driving. Consider a professional deep clean for optimal results.
4. Check your windscreen wipers
After a summer of less frequent use, wiper blades may be worn without notice. Test their condition by squirting water on the windscreen and observing for any missed spots. If they leave wet lines or areas untouched, it's time for replacement. If the blades are in good condition, wash them with warm, soapy water to remove dust that accelerates wear. Ensure the washer bottle is topped up for optimal performance.
5. Make sure your heater/defroster works
In autumn, increased fogging on windows and windscreen can hinder visibility. It's crucial to check and ensure the proper functioning of front and rear window heaters/defrosters. If they're faulty or worn out, seek repairs from a specialist to maintain clear visibility.