Book your Winter Safety check to help ensure your car doesn’t let you down this winter
There’s no doubt about it – winter is coming. We’ve already had a couple of frosts plus plenty of wet and gloomy mornings and evenings.
Winter often sees an increase in car breakdowns and accidents, which means it is a good time to remind you of things to think about to make sure your vehicle is safe on the road this season.
Three simple winter safety vehicle checks you can do yourself
You don’t need to be a mechanic to complete some basic safety checks yourself. Here are three quick and easy things you can check yourself at home that will help you drive safely this winter.
1.Make sure you have plenty of washer fluid and keep it topped up regularly. Spray, mud and salt will mean that your windscreen needs to be cleaned more often than at other times of the year. Don’t risk not being able to see clearly!
2.Have a walk around your car and make sure your lights are clean and working well. If any bulbs look dim (or aren’t working at all!) replace them as soon as possible.
3.Check your oil levels when the vehicle is cool and has been on the flat for a while. The oil level should be between the minimum and maximum level markers if it’s getting low, or indeed is below the minimum level make sure you top it up with the appropriate grade for your vehicle. If you’re not sure, check the handbook or head over to your favourite search engine to make sure you use the correct oil.
If you’re not sure how to check your screenwash or oil levels, let us know. We are happy to show you.
Warning signs that could save you hefty repair bills
Ignoring early warning signs of problems is a sure-fire way to end up with hefty repair bills in the longer term. If you notice any of the following problems, take action sooner rather than later.
Struggling to get started?
When your car struggles to start on the cold mornings it could be an indication of problems with your battery or starter motor. A trickle charger or jump leads might get you going initially but a persistent problem may mean you may need to invest in a new battery. You should also get your alternator checked to make sure it’s charging your battery properly.
What’s that noise?
Has your car started making strange noises? Don’t be tempted to turn the radio up and pretend they’re not happening.
A loud knocking or rattling noise from deep under the bonnet could be warning you that oil levels are dangerously low. Park your vehicle somewhere flat and allow it to settle before checking your oil levels. If it’s below the minimum you need to add more as soon as possible. If that resolves the noise, happy days – you have probably avoided more serious damage. If the noise continues then you need to get a professional to take a look.
Does your car make a knocking sound when you turn corners? This could suggest a problem with the wheel bearings or drive shaft. Left unchecked you are at risk of needing more extensive, and expensive repairs.
Have you noticed unusual engine revving? This sound is a common indication that your clutch needs to be replaced.
Something ‘feels’ odd
If you have noticed that something feels different to usual when you’re driving your car, listen to your gut instincts.
Things like the car pulling to one side, or the brakes feeling a bit soft or spongy can be signs that they have deteriorated and need attention.
If your car has started stuttering, or you notice hesitation when you accelerate, these are signs of potential problems with your fuel system of car electrics.
While you might be able to carry on driving with these problems, it isn’t a good idea. The longer-term implications could be serious engine damage that will cost you more to repair than if you take action now!
Take advantage of a 21 point Winter Safety Check for just £19.99 (+VAT)
Why wait until things go wrong before you take action?
For just £19.99 (+VAT), you can benefit from our 21 point Winter Safety Check of the things most likely to affect your vehicle’s reliability or safety this winter.
This includes:
1.Interior & exterior lights.
2.Seatbelt operation.
3.Windscreen and washers.
4.Suspension dampers.
5.Air conditioning, cooling fan & heater output.
6.Oil.
7.Brake fluid levels and condition.
8.Battery and terminals.
9.Antifreeze levels.
10.Tyre condition.
….and more.
Are you worried about a hefty repair bill?
At Cadnam Garage, we are committed to keeping you stay safely on the road. We understand how important your car is to you. That’s why everything we do is designed to ensure having your vehicle repaired causes you as little inconvenience as possible.
If your vehicle needs vital repairs that you haven’t budgeted for, Payment Assist can help you spread the cost. Just ask a member of our team for more information and we’ll be happy to help.
To book your 21 point Winter Safety Check, phone 023 8081 2159 or speak to a member of our team who will be happy to arrange a convenient appointment.