As temperatures gradually begin to drop, your vehicle can be exposed to a range of challenging conditions. With longer nights drawing in and adverse weather becoming more common, every component of your car is put to the test.

From the frequent use of headlights and wipers to the continuous operation of the heating system, the strain on your car can significantly increase in the winter months. Additionally, short trips during winter are usually more regular, meaning your battery has minimal time to recharge.

Taking time for some essential winter maintenance can spare you the inconvenience and expense of emergency breakdowns. Help keep your car running smoothly with our winter driving tips.

How you can prepare for winter driving - Cover all bases

• Start with the basics, which you can often manage yourself with a quick walk around your vehicle. Activate all your lighting systems, including headlights and fog lights, to ensure they are functioning properly. Don’t forget to check your brake lights – simply reverse close to a reflective surface and watch the reflection as you press the brake pedal.
• Inspect your tyres with a pressure gauge, ideally when they're cold, as driving heats up the air inside, artificially boosting pressure readings.
• Under the bonnet, ensure your windscreen washer reservoir is full, using a pre-mixed solution to prevent freezing. Check the coolant level too, and top it up with anti-freeze if necessary. Texaco EGX antifreeze/coolant is an excellent choice for extreme conditions, helping protect your engine and cooling system from corrosion and freeze-induced damage
• Checking and topping up your engine oil with a high-performance product, such as those from the Texaco Havoline ProDS range, are vital to ensuring your engine stays lubricated even in the coldest weather.
  

Help is at hand for winter car care

While many checks can be carried out by yourself, there’s value in a professional service or winter inspection, especially if it’s due. Many service centres offer seasonal promotions, making it a cost-effective opportunity to ensure your car is in top condition for winter driving.

Planning ahead

If possible, avoid travel during severe weather, and make use of reliable weather apps and websites to stay informed about upcoming conditions. If travel during these conditions is absolutely necessary, consider preparing a winter emergency kit for your car, including essentials such as:

• A portable charger for your mobile phone
• Extra warm clothing and durable boots
• Drinking water and snacks
• A comprehensive first-aid kit
• A hazard warning triangle and a high-visibility vest
• A tow rope, de-icer, ice scraper, and a sturdy shovel
• A flashlight

How Texaco can help you prepare for winter driving

As winter takes its toll, vehicles often emerge in need of thorough maintenance to handle the harsh conditions and prepare for the transition to warmer weather. For over a century, Texaco has been a trusted name in automotive care, providing a range of products that can help ensure optimal performance and robust protection in a variety of conditions – from motorsports to daily commuting.

Texaco’s lineup of Havoline engine oils and EGX Antifreeze/Coolants is engineered to safeguard and boost engine performance, serving as a dependable partner for every journey.