How do I get a diesel car ready for winter? I've checked tyres, wipers and windscreen wash levels and changed the oil (well ok I
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personally didn't change the oil) Anything else I need to do? Ex used to do everything to do with the car so I'm learning as I go along.
Answers (2)
The obvious addtional thing here Jazz is antifreeze! We used to have to change it every year but now it's left in year after year. But if you are unsure, it needs to be checked. I think Halfords may have a checking service.
Windscreen wash needs to be topped up with the 'anti freeze' variety as well otherwise that could be the first thing to stop working.
Have decent ice scrapers handy for the glass on your car and I find a decent rubber squeegee handy for clearing excess moisture. Other things to keep in the car for winter ( subject to cost ) are a pair of battery jumper leads, a decent torch, an old but clean blanket and perhaps a spade for snow ( the type that breaks in the middle for storage ). Other things that I keep in the car are a mobile phone charging lead. Also having an AA membership or similar can be reassuring.
The other thing to check of course is the battery as it's typical that they can let you down in a cold snap. You could again get that checked but they can be expensive to replace nowadays. Most batteries are sealed for life nowadays but can still suffer failing cells.
I assume that the car has been serviced reasonably regularly and thinks like fanbelts in good order?
No Jazz I don't believe that any 'under bonnet' checks are made during the MOT apart from security of the steering rack and steering joints. Fanbelts come under maintenance but they are well worth a visual inspection, if indeed you can actually see them ) for purposes of alternator charging, power steering and air conditioning pumps.
I'll hunt for the handbook and have a look thanks Snoops. Suppose I could cop out and have it serviced at a garage but they charge a small fortune and I need to learn
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Thanks Snoopy, until recently I'd never even lifted the bonnet as it wasn't deemed ladylike (neither was painting my toenails but that's another story) so I think I'm doing quite well. Didn't know there was a winter wash variety for the windscreen, and got no idea about antifreeze. Will fanbelts etc have been checked as part of the MOT? Have got the sensible things in my car (but not battery leads)and breakdown insurance but am nervous as I'm in isolated position and will be housebound without a car.
Just as well you haven't got a car like mine, Jazzj, or you'd have got a hell of a shock when you lifted the bonnet...no engine! The engine's in the back! :-)
Lol fruitcake! Reminds me of the old Candid Camera sketch (that giving my age away??)
You'll like this then, this really happened to me a couple of years back...I'd just bought a large canister of helium gas (for balloons at a party!) and was trying to fit the stupid thing into my very tiny boot, which is under the bonnet.
A rather elderly gentleman spotted me with the bonnet up and, obviously thinking I'd broken down, came over and kindly offered his help. He peered into the bonnet, and looked shocked when all he saw was an empty space and a canister of helium!
I know I shouldn't have, but I just couldn't resist...so I said, 'Don't worry, it doesn't need an engine, it runs on helium!' His face was a picture as he walked away scratching his head! :-)
Lol Feline, wonder how many people he told about it??