As the evenings begin to get darker and the weather gets colder, the roads can be hazardous and we need to be confident that our vehicles are safe and reliable for the season ahead.
Every year, a quarter of weather-related vehicle accidents occur during bad weather, including snow, sleet or ice. It is imperative that you understand the key areas to keep an eye on, so we've given you some advice on your winter car service.
Even if you feel as though your car is running perfectly fine, it is always a good idea to get a Winter Check before you go into the colder months, as there can be problem areas that you may not be aware of.
What's Included?
A Winter Check at Prestige Cars Kent is the best way to ensure that your car is prepared for the colder months. Snow and ice can be very dangerous, but a Winter Check will give you the assurance you need to know your vehicle is up to the task.
Our Winter Vehicle Health Checks are available as a stand-alone while-you-wait appointment for £29.99 incl. VAT, if your service isn’t due until next summer we would strongly advise a winter health check in the interim.
You'll receive a VHC with this service worth £60 for free. This is a fully interactive video showing you every single check we do on your car, this will highlight any work that needs completing right away or in the near future. This is a fantastic tool for your peace of mind that we do what we say we'll do. How can you be sure that every single check is done otherwise, only when is is recorded and sent directly to you.
It is essential to ensure that your tyres are fully prepared as roads can become icy and wet over the colder months. During a Winter Check, tyre tread depth and pressure will be inspected to establish if they are safe to drive on - your technician will advise you on the best course of action.
We will check your brakes are functioning correctly and are within the required limits until your next service. This includes checking the brake pads and the discs are the correct depth/thickness, as well as not being scored or damaged.
We will check the gators are not split, universal joints and bushes are functioning at their optimal levels, and are well greased ready to handle the icy conditions expected this year.
The last thing anyone wants to do is be caught out with problems with their car battery in winter. A Winter Check will ensure your battery is at optimum performance.
Engine-related breakdowns are commonly related to issues with a vehicle's cooling system. A Winter Check will ensure the cooling system in your vehicle is optimal and your antifreeze will be checked.
Windscreen wipers are extremely important in the winter as the weather can change unexpectedly and it is vital that you have perfect vision whilst driving. During a Winter Check, the condition of your windscreen wipers will be inspected to make sure they are suitable for screen clearing. At the same time, your wiper fluid level will be checked and topped up if necessary.
A car light assessment will ensure all lights are working to the correct standard. There are a lot fewer hours of sunlight in the winter and you may find yourself driving in fog, meaning front and rear lights are used more. Driving with broken lights is both illegal and dangerous, so this is a necessary precaution to take.
Too little or too much oil in a vehicle can cause engine problems. To avoid breakdowns in the cold months, it is important to get this checked - this is something your technician will advise you on.
We'll give you a spray can of de-icer and a snug gloved ice scraper to help you clear those icy windows ahead in comfort.