Winter Driving Tips to Save Money
You can almost guarantee that if something is going to go wrong with your car it will happen in the winter; just when you need it the most.
There are lots of things you need to do to ensure your car runs well through the coldest months but bear in mind these will also save you expensive breakdown and repair bills.
The AA have some great tips on their website but here are a few we have chosen:
Can you see?
We know that the traffic is bad enough when it snows that taking the extra time to clear your windscreen can seem like a real hassle but it’s important to keep in mind that not only is it unbelievably dangerous to drive without proper visibility but police will fine you if they believe you are driving dangerously.
I’m sure we’ve all seen the person who has cleared just a small patch of their windscreen but what if they miss a cyclist or someone on a zebra crossing? It simply isn’t worth cutting corners.
Similarly make sure your lights are clean, especially your fog lights. Replace any faulty bulbs as you will get stopped if lights are not working properly.
Keep your windscreen wash topped up, especially when the gritters are out, and keep de-icer and a scraper handy at all times. Don’t be tempted to drive away before your windscreen is completely clear, it can easily mist up again very quickly.
Didn’t realise that there was a wrong way to clean your windscreen? Check out the 5 RIGHT ways to clean your windscreen.
Check your oil
This only needs to be done now and then but making sure your oil levels are where they should be will protect your engine and keep it running smoothly and efficiently.
If your car is regularly serviced and up to date on its MOT this shouldn’t be a problem.
Check and Top Up your Oil Level Guide
Keep an eye on your tyres
In bad weather, it is vital that your tyres are in good condition. Worn or bare tyres can cause a serious problem, especially when braking on ice or snow. The minimum tread required by law is 1.6mm but the AA recommends at least 2mm and 3mm for winter driving.
If you’re not sure to take the car to a trusted local garage where I’m sure someone will have a quick look for you.
As important is your tyre pressure which can easily be checked at a petrol station forecourt if you don’t have a pump at home. Your handbook will tell you the correct settings for your vehicle.
Follow these tyre tread depth and tyre safety checks from the RAC to keep your tyres safe.
Don’t overuse your battery
The most common cause of winter breakdowns is battery problems. When you consider heating, the blower, lights and everyday electrical use this is hardly surprising. Don’t use heating and vents more than necessary and you’ll help preserve your battery life.
It’s important to keep using your vehicle in order to recharge the battery so if you haven’t been out for a while it’s worth taking it out for a spin.
Keep in mind that an average battery lasts about five years and it might be worth replacing it before the worst of the weather hits.
Here’s what to look for if you think your battery is dead or dying
If something goes wrong it always seems to be in the winter and if you are short of cash the answer could at first appear to be a payday advance. There are, however, much better short-term loan lenders on the market and we can help find the right one for you.
Even better, our loans can even be with you on the same day! Click on the link for more on our quick lenders.
Clare McDonald
As a mother of two, Clare knows the importance of being careful with money, so writes posts from personal experience. Clare also loves to find great deals, so shares her finding here.
