8 Ways to Get Your Car Winter Ready

Other than a house, your car is most likely the biggest investment you will make. This is why, as we head into the winter months, it is important to ensure your car is properly maintained. Although spending money on maintenance may seem like a waste when your car is running well. It will save you time and money in the long run.

Winter driving in Ireland can often be unpredictable and it takes its toll on your car. Having your car in the best shape possible will not only benefit your own safety but guarantee that your car maintains its value.

Here are some of the measures you can take to help your car get through the winter:

1. Paintwork Protection

The weather in Ireland over the winter can give the exterior of your car a serious test. With Ex-Hurricane Ophelia and Storm Brian already showing us the unpredictability of Irish weather, we can expect more weather extremes over the coming months. The paint on your car can be severely dulled by snow, ice and dirt, and most effected by the salt that will be laid on the roads over the winter. It is advised to use a good layer of wax to protect the exterior of your car especially from the salt that will cause some significant rust.

A ceramic coating is also a great way to battle the cold weather and gives longer lasting protection. Make sure that wax or ceramic coats are applied correctly by running water on the surface of your car, if applied correctly, the water should run off.

2. Clean Your Car

As mentioned above, salt can cause damage to the coat on your car. Salt is a highly corrosive substance and results in rusting of the metal on your car. This rust takes time to happen, so to counteract this, it is advised to wash your car as much as possible. The more you wash your car, the more you are washing this salt off.

We are all aware that it isn’t easy to face washing the car in freezing temperatures, but the benefit this will have to your cars exterior will make the effort worthwhile.

3. Look out for Minor Chips on Windows

With salt and grit often spread in anticipation of icy conditions, it is important to check windows and windscreens for minor cracks. In colder conditions, these chips will worsen and lead to major cracks. AIG Windscreen cover is included on both comprehensive and third party fire & theft car insurance policies for free and does not affect your no claims bonus so we recommend getting any chips repaired.

4. Replace Window Wipers

Irish winters can cause damage to windscreen wipers as they start to be used more frequently. The general advice on windscreen wipers is to replace them at least every six months but if you hear squeaking, then it is time to change them.

5. Use Anti-Freeze

Anti-Freeze or coolant helps to prevent ice from forming in your cars. Added to your car radiator, with water, and it reduces the liquids freezing point. It ensures the liquid in your car’s radiator doesn’t freeze, protecting your engine from long lasting damage.

6. Mechanical Preparation 

It’s vital to the longevity of your car that you prepare your engine for the potentially harsh winter ahead. Check critical areas of your car like:

• Brakes
• Tires
• Oil levels
• Lights
• Heating

Begin to prepare the car in autumn if possible and check each thing week by week to guarantee that you have taken all the necessary precautions to ensure your car is not effected by cold weather.

7. Get Your Battery Tested

As mentioned above, getting a mechanic to examine your car is extremely important. One of the more important mechanical checks is to have your battery tested. A dead battery could leave you stranded with no heat. The capacity of your battery can be affected by cold periods. If a battery is more than three years old, it is advised to have it replaced.

8. Park Wisely 

Another measure you can take to increase the chances of limiting damage to your car during the winter is to park it in clever spots. If you have a garage or a cover for your car, then use it, if not then try to park it in a sheltered space. Spots in behind a tall hedge or wall so your car will be protected from the elements.

If your insurance is up for renewal this winter, get a quote from us, we might help you save some money!