Tips for Winter

It’s that time of year again: the weather forecast talks about first snowfall, winter starts to make itself felt, and road conditions are getting worse. By now every responsible driver will be asking themselves whether they have done everything necessary to ensure their vehicle makes it through the cold season in a decent state.

Here are the most important tips for carefree driving even in winter:

Switch to winter tires! The rule of thumb is that winter tires should be used from October until Easter. Those who really do make the switch in October are sure to easily get an appointment in the workshop and with tire service providers. Winter tires should have a tread depth of at least four millimeters. This can be easily measured using a one-euro coin – its golden edge is three millimeters high, so it should be covered entirely by the tread.

Check the radiator antifreeze! The antifreeze for the radiator system should be sufficient for at least minus 25 degrees Celsius. A workshop or gas station can easily test the concentration of the coolant and adjust it by adding the appropriate amount of antifreeze.

Check the antifreeze windshield washer! You should add winter cleaner to the windshield wash fluid. This prevents the water, pump, and nozzles from freezing. After filling it for winter, don’t forget to activate the windshield cleaning system until the cleaning water has reached the nozzles. This will ensure that the entire system is frost-proof.

Switch on your lights! In winter, the days are short and we drive at night more often. It is important to be able to rely on the headlights at all times. So you should check all your lights and, if necessary, have a workshop adjust them.

Check the windshield wipers! If old windshield wipers leave streaks on the windshield, they should be exchanged for new ones. If the vehicle is left in the open, the wiper blades should be separated from the windshield overnight using a rubber strip. This prevents the wipers from freezing to the windshield and being damaged if they are released abruptly.

Take care of the doors! The rubber seals on the doors and trunk lid can be kept smooth with special care products. The door locks can be protected against freezing with non-resinous oils.

Check the battery! In winter more systems use the battery, such as the rear window heating or heated seats. Make sure to check the battery power in good time and replace it if necessary. Gas stations and specialist workshops can perform this service.

If you follow all the technical tips, your car should manage the winter very well.