"Winter Tyres: Things You're Forgetting to Do"
"Tyres Redditch, Michelin Tyres Redditch (750+ words)"
[ "Winter Tyres: Things You're Forgetting to DoWe're now on the cusp of winter, and it's time to check your tyres. Make sure you have at least 4mm of tread across the entire surface. Since as wearing on just a single spot can cause a puncture. An excellent way to measure is to use a pound coin or something similarly sized. If it fits in entirely with no slippage, then you have enough. However, don't go too low in the other direction either, or you'll have to face another problem - overheating. It could even lead to brake failureIf your tyre is starting to look very thin indeed, you might need new ones. It doesn't matter what they are, but do remember that wide;Tyres Redditch;are suitable for snow and ice so take care, you might think they'll be grippier, but this isn't the case.Tyres:Once you've checked your tyres, it's time to winterise your car. Top up your antifreeze/coolant fluid, check your wiper blades are good, clean off any salt residue from the bodywork. You should do this every year regardless of the weather conditions of;Michelin Tyres Redditch;but it is essential when facing temperatures below zero degrees CelsiusExterior Lights:Don't forget about exterior lights either. Most modern cars have specially designed optics that increase light output in wintry conditions. So they shouldn't appear dimmer than usual. However, if you've had the same halogens since 2001 then it's time to consider upgrading. Modern lights can produce up to twice as much light as older models.Interior Lights:Lights are something that should be in optimal condition, outside and inside as wellIf you haven't already invested in a new set of bulbs, now is the time! The colder weather brings out fatigue. So if you're driving on dark winter evenings ensure they are at their maximum luminosity to avoid any accidents. It doesn't mean they have to be Xenon blue either. Just remember that red lights require more energy than others. So stick with your regular colour choice but give them an extra boost with aftermarket bulbs or HID kits.Windscreen Wipers:Another thing worth considering is where you use your wipers. If it is a warm day and you used your windscreen washers, the blades will be cold and unsuitable for snow. It can cause streaking or smear on your screen. You could try warming them up with a hairdryer. However, it's better to just pop them back in the car overnight, so they are at average temperature when you need them most. Also, while we're talking about washers, why not invest in some "No-Snow" windscreen wiper fluid? It prevents ice and snow from sticking to your glass so even if it freezes, liquid still passes through without fail.Don't Forget Your Heating Either -;There isn't much worse than turning that dial to maximum only to find it has no effect whatsoever. Check your coolant levels, they should be between min and max, with the former preferable - too much antifreeze can cause corrosion of internal engine parts. Back in the day, it was advisable to use an additive instead, but modern lubricants are antifreeze-based, so using a tube or bottle will do the job just fine. Don't forget about your demister pads either - if there's ice on them they won't work!And finally, while we're thinking about heaters... make sure you pop some oven gloves under your seat before you set off this winter! You may not realise what a difference they make until you've tried it yourselfPS:;If you're one of those people who has to take your pet out for a walk every morning at 7 am regardless of the weather, then you and it could probably do with some winter dog clothing!Top Tip:;can't get your doors open? Did you lock them with the central locking button and don't have a spare key for some reason? Get yourself a cheap de-icer spray (like this one from Halfords ) and squirt it between the rubber seal and metal handle. Then leave it to soak in while you go back inside. A few minutes later, come back and try again - if all has gone well, you should be able to unlock the door using your internal door release mechanism. If not, then buy an interior and exterior door handle and replace them both - they're relatively cheap, but at least you know that new parts won't cause problems down the line.Conclusion:;If you follow all of these tips. Your car will hopefully be in the best possible condition for when your alarm goes off in the morning. At this time of year, it's easy to become complacent. So, just forget about routine checks. However, if you want to avoid any unnecessary headaches, stick to our guide, you'll do fine! And remember, half the battle is preparation. Prepare your car with all the necessary products before cold weather hits so that everything is ready when you are." ]