Okay, so I know we didn’t get a shed load of snow over Christmas, and I’m sure, like me, you’re disappointed that you didn’t get to dig out the sledges and toboggans over Christmas, BUT you and I both know, it won’t belong before Jack Frost comes a-calling and the mornings are not complete without a balaclava and a kettle of warm water to clear the windscreen!! (I know, I know, you shouldn’t do it, but at T minus 2mins to school time, it happens in our household …)So, with that in mind some timely reminders from the AA in their article on winter driving advice – let’s start with Antifreeze!
Why use antifreeze in my car?
- Antifreeze costs only a few pounds, but a frozen and cracked engine block will cost hundreds of pounds to repair.
- Most modern cars use long-life antifreeze – it’s important to use the right type and avoid mixing different types. Check the handbook or ask a dealer for advice.
- Glycol-based antifreeze should be changed at least every two years.
- You need a 50-50 mix of antifreeze and water in the cooling system for winter. This gives maximum protection down to -34° centigrade, and without it, severe engine damage costing hundreds of pounds can occur.
So – simples! It’s low cost, it’s effective and to be frank, you’re taking unnecessary risks without it in place.
What are your top tips for keeping you car on the road in Winter?