UPDATE: As winter weather intensifies, motorists are urged to prepare their vehicles to avoid breakdowns on icy roads. The RAC has just announced essential tips to ensure your car is winter-ready, emphasizing the importance of a quick check before hitting the road.
The RAC’s winter preparation advice revolves around the memorable mnemonic ‘FORCES’, which highlights six crucial checks every driver should perform. “Cold conditions can worsen existing mechanical issues and lead to breakdowns,” RAC officials warned in their October guidance. They aim to prevent the inconvenience of being stranded during harsh winter conditions.
Key Winter Checks for Drivers
Here’s a breakdown of what ‘FORCES’ stands for:
- F – Fuel: Ensure your tank is sufficiently filled. Winter weather can lead to stop-start driving and heavier congestion, depleting fuel levels faster.
- O – Oil: Verify that your engine oil is at the appropriate level to avoid mechanical failures.
- R – Rubber: Check that tyres are properly inflated and have sufficient tread for optimal grip on icy surfaces.
- C – Coolant: Maintain correct coolant levels to prevent engine overheating and freezing.
- E – Electrics: Test all lights, including brake lights and indicators, to ensure visibility in poor conditions.
- S – Screenwash: Keep your windscreen washer topped up with a concentrated solution to combat winter grime.
The RAC stresses that these checks can help prevent avoidable breakdowns, which are particularly inconvenient during the winter months. “We want to stop our members from breaking down, rather than just helping them once they are stuck,” the RAC stated.
Additional Winter Preparation Tips
In addition to the ‘FORCES’ checks, the RAC recommends effective de-icing methods. Using a scraper and de-icing spray can expedite the process significantly. For a DIY solution, a mix of water with a teaspoon of salt or a three-to-one ratio of vinegar to water can be effective. The RAC also cautions against using boiling water, as it can crack the windscreen.
“Don’t wait until the first frost to find out you’ve run out of de-icer. Plan ahead,” advised RAC officials.
As winter progresses, drivers are reminded to take these precautions seriously. With road conditions expected to worsen, ensuring your vehicle is prepared could save you from significant delays and hazards. For more in-depth information, visit the RAC’s official website.
Stay safe this winter, and share these vital tips with fellow drivers to ensure everyone is prepared for the icy conditions ahead!
