Why do car batteries fail more in winter?

Car batteries are under more strain in colder months due to increased use of heaters, defrosters, and lights, and the starter motor has to work harder to turn the engine.

What's the best way to de-ice a car windscreen?

Never pour boiling water on an iced windscreen, as it can crack the glass. Use a de-icer spray or a mixture of vinegar and water.

How can I check my car's tyre tread depth?

Insert a 20p coin into your tyre grooves; if the outer band of the coin is obscured, the tread is likely within the legal limit.

Home / Lifestyle / Winter Car Woes? Beat Breakdowns!

Winter Car Woes? Beat Breakdowns!

19 Nov

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Summary

Car batteries fail more in cold due to increased strain.
Avoid pouring boiling water on windscreens to prevent cracks.
Tyre tread depth is vital for grip; use a 20p coin to check.

As winter approaches, car breakdowns become more common, with battery failure being the leading cause of RAC callouts. Colder temperatures place additional strain on car batteries due to the increased use of heaters, defrosters, and lights, forcing the starter motor to work harder. Checking battery health before the freeze is advisable, with services like Halfords offering free consultations.

Dealing with iced windscreens requires caution. Pouring boiling water can cause the glass to crack, leading to expensive repairs. Opt for commercial de-icer sprays, which cost around £2.50, or a homemade solution of three parts vinegar to one part water. Crucially, maintaining adequate tyre tread depth is essential for road grip. The legal minimum is 1.6mm, but 3mm is recommended. Driving with bald tyres can result in a £2,500 fine and three penalty points per tyre.

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