Winter Car Checks for Sheerness Drivers: Battery, Tyres and Lights
Practical winter car checks for Sheerness drivers. Battery, tyres, lights, wipers and more, we come to you at home or work. Call 07950 897822.
Winter car checks in Sheerness: what to do before the cold hits
Cold mornings have a way of exposing weaknesses a car has been hiding since summer. A battery that barely coped in October can give up in January, and tyres that grip well in the dry can lose confidence when the temperature drops. Getting ahead of problems before winter sets in is one of the most practical things you can do for your car. HJL Mobile Mechanic, based in Sheerness, brings vehicle maintenance and repairs to your home or workplace. This guide covers the checks worth making.
Why winter is harder on cars
Cold affects almost every system. Engine oil thickens, rubber stiffens, and the battery works harder to start a cold engine while also running lights, the demister and the heater. Short trips and cars left standing for days can make things worse.
The battery
Batteries wear with age and use, and winter is when a weak one is most likely to let you down. Signs to watch for:
- The engine turns over slowly or sounds laboured
- A clicking noise but the engine does not start
- Dim dashboard or headlights
- The battery warning light coming on
If any of these sound familiar, have it checked before the coldest weeks. A professional check can tell you whether the battery and charging system are doing their job.
Tyres
Tyre pressure can drop as temperatures fall, so check pressures when the tyres are cold, using the figures in your handbook or on the sticker in the door frame. Check tread depth and condition too. The legal minimum in the UK is 1.6mm across the central three-quarters of the tread, and many people choose to replace tyres before they reach it. Look for cracks, bulges and uneven wear, and have anything unusual checked.
Lights
Winter means more driving in the dark. Walk around the car and check headlights (dipped and full beam), brake lights, indicators and fog lights. Ask someone to help you check the brake lights if you cannot see them. Replacing a bulb can be awkward on some cars, so if you are not confident, ask for help.
Wipers and screenwash
Worn wipers smear rather than clear, which matters in rain, sleet and frost. Replace them if they judder or leave streaks, and top up the screenwash with a proper winter-strength solution. Do not use washing-up liquid, which can leave a film on the glass.
Coolant and oil
Coolant protects the engine from overheating and freezing. Check the level only when the engine is cold, and never open the cap on a hot engine. If you are unsure about the condition or strength of the coolant, have it checked. For oil, check the dipstick level when the engine has been off for a few minutes on level ground. If the car is due a service, winter is a sensible time to get it done. See mobile car servicing.
A note on safety
If your car has a warning light on, unusual noises, pulls to one side, has reduced braking, or smoke or steam from the bonnet, do not ignore it, and do not drive if you think it may be unsafe. Brakes, steering and overheating should always be checked promptly by a professional.
For how a visit works, see how a mobile mechanic works in Sheerness.
Frequently asked questions
How often should I service my car? Follow your manufacturer's handbook, which sets intervals by mileage or time.
What makes a car unroadworthy? A fault that makes it unsafe or illegal to drive, such as tyres below the legal tread depth, lights not working or brakes not working properly. If you are unsure, do not drive it and get it checked.
Can I leave my car standing over winter? If a car will not be used for a while, check tyre pressures, make sure the battery is in good condition and park somewhere sheltered if you can. Check the oil, coolant, brakes and tyres before driving it again.
How do I book? Call 07950 897822 or use the contact form.
Book a winter check in Sheerness
If you would like help getting your car ready for winter, call 07950 897822 or get in touch using the contact form to talk through your car and arrange a booking.
