subject: A Winter Service [print this page] Winter is yet again around the corner and before the roads gets all icy and treacherous it might be prudent to make sure your vehicle is in tip top shape and up for the rougher conditions autumn and winter has to offer.
A service before winter should include changing oil and oil filter and making sure that all fluid levels are topped up i.e. things like coolant and windscreen wash. Making sure all fluid levels are correct is a task most people should be able to perform themselves but if you dont feel up to the task it might be a good idea to give your car a once over at a local garage by taking it for a car servicing. Hereford and other areas should have plenty of garages able and willing to accept your trade. A garage will also be able to change filters for you which might be a step too far for most car owners.
You should also check breaks, lights and tyres. Breaks because the breaking distance on icy roads are longer than on dry roads, lights because it gets darker earlier and youre more likely to have to drive while its dark than in summer, and tyres because you want them to have proper grip so youre less likely to lose traction or skid. If you live in an area which has been prone to snow in recent years it might also be worth considering getting some winter specific tyres. You should also check your battery as there is a higher risk of it going flat in winter than in summer.
A winter check up at a well appointed garage should ideally also include check of windscreen wipers, hand break, brake callipers and all lights, including indicators. Spending a bit of money on this now might just save you from larger bills later on, or it might even save you from a potential accident.
