10 Safe Tips To Get Your Car Ready For Winter

The nights are drawing in, the weather becomes wilder and the roads turns more treacherous. That's right, winter is about to herald its arrival to the discerning car owner. According to statisitics released by the Highways Agency, more than 11,000 incidents took place last winter between October and December on motorways and major roads.

So, don't be a statistic: Make sure you implement these top ten tips to get your car ready for Winter.

1. Have An Ice Scraper To Hand

Such a simple tool can make a world of difference to your car journey in winter. In the early mornings and late evenings, make sure you scrape the ice off your windscreen and doors to gain maximum visibility of the road. Check out this Boyztoys scraper if you need one.

2. Pack Warm Things

You never know when your car might break down in the middle of nowhere. You may get caught up in the snow, unable to move until later. Packing a blanket or even a duvet in your boot will ensure you keep warm in freezing conditions. That way you can avoid draining your car battery to keep the heaters going.

3. Get Your Vehicle Serviced

Ensure your car is ready for winter by taking it to a local garage to get it serviced. You'll be safe in the knowledge that your car is working at full capacity and at a much reduced chance of any breakdown.

4. Have a Clean Windscreen

The sun is low in winter and will highlight any marks on your windscreen, reducing your chance of great visibility. Make sure your windscreen wash is filled up to the brim and your wipers are in working order. It may be wise to invest in Boyztoys windscreen wash.

5. Keep Your Petrol Tank Filled

Your car should never be running at nearly empty during winter. If it does, the gas in your petrol tank will condense onto the compartment and the fuel pipe overnight before freezing. In the morning, the car won't start as the petrol gases will not flow through the fuel pipe due to a freeze blockage. Always make sure your fuel gauge is at full.

6. Plan Your Journey

The last thing you want is to be lost and stuck in the middle of nowhere in wintry conditions. Before any journey, look up your route and ensure that it is easily accessible for the emergency services in the worst case scenario. Perhaps it would be worth investing in a Sat-Nav from our range.

7. Change Your Oil

Thinner and less viscous oil will work best in Winter as external temperatures will influence the internal temperature in your car. Thicker oil will make your car engine sluggish.

8. Keep Your Lights Clear

It's not only your windscreen that can get grimy during the winter months. You need to keep your car lights clean so other people can see you clearly, and of course for you to see much better on the road ahead of you. Give them a wipe before you go on a journey and perhaps replace your lightbulbs with a spare from our car bulb range.

9. Watch Out For Weather Warnings

Winter is a time for unpredictable weather. You are very much more likely to get caught in bad conditions and the risk of road traffic accidents increases greatly. Check the weather reports before you leave and act accordingly.

10. Buy Breakdown Cover

It's essential to cover yourself for breakdowns. Comprehensive cover is available at all major car insurance providers at good value. That way, you can be assured that help is just a phone call away.

Act now to implement these tips and don't become a statistic.

Do you think there are other tips drivers should know about looking after their car in winter? Comment with your thoughts below.