Preparing Your Car For Winter with AA Silencers
With winter on the horizon, motorists may face unexpected expenses and potential breakdowns. We spoke with Adam from AA Silencers to learn how drivers in the Staffordshire Moorlands can ready their vehicles for winter, helping them steer clear of unpleasant surprises during this cold and costlier season.
Talking Tyres with Adam
“It’s been a mild September, but over the next couple of months I’d advise people to be checking their tyres. If they’re thinking of new tyres - think about having ‘all-season’ tyres fitted, rather than traditional tyres."
All-season tyres are very good in the summer and also very good throughout the winter months. They have a lot more grip and are better in snowy conditions. They’re also better in ‘cold’ conditions, which is something a lot of people miss, as it’s not just the snow - it’s also the cold. Tyres are affected by temperature, either hot or cold. So many people don’t realise this, and it’s a big thing for road safety."
Q: Would you suggest getting all 4 tyres changed to the ‘All-season’ tyres?
"Realistically, all the tyres are important on a vehicle. I would always recommend having matching tyres, front and back, but if only 2 are needed, then it won’t hurt having these replaced with ‘all-season’ tyres. Definitely most effective when replacing all 4. I'm not saying change your tyres if not needed, but when they’re needed, think about the ‘all-season’. Do feel welcome to come chat with us if you need advice."
Being Cool about Coolant
"Coolant is a big thing; it’s important to have enough antifreeze in your vehicle. You can buy this and put it in yourself, just make sure you buy the right one as there are quite a few different types. This information is in your handbook or underneath the bonnet. A good way to tell is to check what colour the coolant is. The tank that holds the coolant is usually see-through, or take the lid off and have a look. Do make sure the car is cold before checking, as when it’s hot, it’s under pressure."
Now for lights!
"Lights are really important, with darker mornings and nights affecting most drives. Check all your bulbs are working, call in, and we will happily help you with this."
People come in to check their tyres, coolant, and lights, and this is a free service we offer. No booking is required; you can just call in, and we will check it all while you wait.
Brakes Besties
Brakes are important all year round too. A car can have really good brakes, but if the tyres are poor, the two go together: brakes and tyres.
Wipers!
Wipers are important too. If your screen is frozen, it’s important not to switch your wipers on until the screen is clear because it can easily damage your wipers.
De-Icer first, then a scraper. Some people put cloths over their screen, and this will help too.
Preparing for those times when your car decides to stop but you don't want to
Keep a blanket in your vehicle - if you make it a washable one, it can be useful for all kinds of things: muddy cold dogs, tired children, outdoor seating, etc.
Get a little kit together to keep in your car - drinks, long-life snacks, perhaps that book you've been meaning to read...
Keep your phone charged too.
Have your breakdown recovery services’ number handy or know who to call. Keeping that in the car separately from your phone; lots of folks keep it behind the front visor.
Adam says: "We’re always happy to help with advice." You can find out more about AA Silencers on their website https://www.aasilencers.com/
Preparing Your Car For Winter with AA Silencers
