Don’t get caught out –

Here’s your essential guide to prepare for the British roads this winter!

 

Ah, winter. A time for cosy jumpers, endless cups of tea, and a national obsession with grumbling about the weather. But while you’re busy stocking up on mince pies and de-icing your windscreen with a bank card (don’t pretend you don’t), have you thought about how well-prepared your car is for the frosty months ahead? At Fort Fareham Garage, we’re here to help you keep your car running smoothly when the temperature drops and the roads turn into an ice rink.

 

Your Battery: Keeping the Spark Alive

There’s nothing worse than sitting in a freezing car, turning the key, and hearing that dreaded click click click of a dead battery. Batteries hate the cold almost as much as we do, so now’s the time to show yours some love.

• Test It or Regret It: If your battery is as old as your favourite Christmas jumper, get it tested.
• Cleanliness Counts: Scrape off any corrosion (white gunky stuff) from the terminals.
• Be Prepared: Keep jump leads in the boot because, let’s face it, nobody else will!

 

 

Tyres: Keeping You on the Straight and Narrow

Your tyres are what keep your car glued to the road, which is pretty important when those roads are frosty, wet, or covered in that mysterious snow-slush combo.

• Check the Tread: If your tyre tread is as thin as your patience on the school run, it’s time for new ones. Aim for at least 3mm of tread.
• Tyre Pressure Matters: Cold air can make tyres lose pressure. Check them regularly to avoid driving on what feels like jelly.
• Winter Tyres? If you live somewhere more prone to snow than sarcasm (hello, Scotland), you might want to invest in winter tyres.

 

Antifreeze: It’s in the Name

Your car’s coolant system isn’t just there for show – it’s what keeps your engine from turning into an ice sculpture.

• Test the Mixture: You’ll need a proper balance of antifreeze and water.
• Top It Up: Don’t just guess; pop into Fort Fareham Garage, and we’ll sort it for you.

 

Lights: So You Can See (and Be Seen)

With the sun setting at what feels like 3 pm, good lighting is a must. Plus, let’s be honest, nobody wants to be the person driving around with one headlight out.

• Bulb Check: Get someone to help you test all your lights – headlights, indicators, brake lights, and fog lights. (Or just park in front of a shop window and admire your reflection while checking.)
• Wipe Them Clean: Winter grime can make your lights about as effective as a candle in a hurricane.

 

Wipers and Washer Fluid

Smearing dirt across your windscreen with old wipers is about as helpful as trying to clear it with your hand. And yes, your washer fluid can freeze too.

• Replace Old Blades: If your wipers are squeaking, streaking, or generally being useless, invest in a new pair.
• Winter Washer Fluid: Swap out the summer stuff for a winter mix that won’t freeze the second Jack Frost shows up.

 

Brakes: Because Stopping Is Kind of Important

Let’s not sugarcoat this – good brakes are essential when the roads are wet or icy!

• Brake Pads and Discs: Get them checked to ensure they’re up to the task.
• Brake Fluid: If it’s old or low, it could affect performance. Nobody wants that.

 

Emergency Kit: Channel Your Inner Boy Scout/Girl Guide!

Winter can be unpredictable – much like the British public’s reaction to a single snowflake. Be ready for anything with an emergency kit in your car.

• Blankets and Coats: Because you can’t rely on heating in an emergency!
• De-Icer and Scraper: That loyalty card isn’t cutting it anymore.
• Snacks: Non-perishable food and water, because hunger pangs always hit when you’re stuck.

 

Fuel: Never Run on Fumes

In winter, your fuel tank should always be at least half full. Why? Because condensation can form in an empty tank, which could freeze and block your fuel lines. Plus, running out of petrol in the cold is not how anybody wants to spend their day!

 

Defrosters and Heaters: Don’t Let Frost Be the Boss

Your heater and defrosters aren’t just for comfort – they’re safety essentials. After all, you can’t drive safely when your windscreen looks like an abstract art installation.

• Test Your System: Make sure your heaters and defrosters are in working order before you really need them.
• Fix Any Issues: If it’s not blowing warm air, it’s time to call in the experts.

 

Driving Tips: Because Ice Isn’t Nice

Even if your car is winter-ready, your driving style might need an adjustment.

• Slow Down: This isn’t Formula 1 – take it steady.
• Keep Your Distance: The two-second rule doesn’t cut it on icy roads.
• Gentle Movements: Sudden braking or sharp steering is a one-way ticket to skid central.

 

Book Your Winter Check-Up at Fort Fareham Garage

Preparing your car for winter isn’t just about avoiding breakdowns – it’s about staying safe, keeping your family warm, and making sure your car isn’t the one holding up traffic because it’s thrown a strop in the cold.

At Fort Fareham Garage, we offer a 10 Point Winter Safety Check for just £15 to ensure your car is ready for whatever the season throws at it. From battery tests to fluid levels we’ve got you covered – and we promise to do it all with the honesty and transparency we’re known for.

Give us a call today or book online, and let’s keep you and your car safe this winter. After all, the only thing you should be worrying about is whether you’ve wrapped your Christmas presents – not whether your car’s going to make it to New Year.