The AA has warned drivers of the three ‘crucial’ checks they should be doing before setting off on a journey in the winter – and they only take a few minutes to complete
An AA spokesperson has revealed three swift but crucial checks drivers should carry out before setting off on any winter journeys. The chilly weather has arrived in force, with unpredictable conditions such as ice, snow, rain and more becoming increasingly frequent and probable.
This can make driving far more dangerous and nerve-wracking. Research conducted by vehicle history platform carVertical revealed January posed the greatest crash risk (10.3%), while the current month of November trailed closely with a 9.8% risk.
Milder weather and longer daylight hours generally appear to correspond with reduced accident likelihood, with April recording 7% and September 7.1% – although June registered a 9.2% risk. It’s crucial for motorists to remain vigilant and conscious of the potential hazards winter weather can present on the roads.
With this in mind, the AA has compiled a summary of vital checks all drivers should perform on their vehicles.
Speaking directly to the camera, a spokesperson began: “Don’t neglect your car. Here’s three checks you can do in the time it takes to make a cup of tea.”
Number one – check your oil level
The AA clarified: “Do this to make sure your engine stays nice and lubricated and healthy. Make sure you do this before any long journey.”
Oil levels differ between vehicles, so it’s essential to examine yours every few weeks to understand what’s appropriate for your motor. The correct level should be halfway between the minimum and maximum levels on the dipstick.
Not all cars are equipped with a dipstick, some have electric oil readers so make sure to check your user manual so you know what to look for.
Number two – check your tyre tread
The AA spokesperson emphasised this is crucial “to make sure you’ve got enough grip and traction along the road”.
He then said: “Do this before any long journey and make sure you’re always within the legal limit.”
Motor retailer Halfords explains: “Driving with worn tyres is not only a serious safety risk, but a costly one too.
“In the UK, the fine for bald tyres is £2,500 plus three points on your licence per tyre, so it’s essential to check them monthly for any signs of damage or wear.”
The minimum legal tread depth is 1.6mm. Halfords adds: “However, most motoring organisations recommend changing your tyres before the tread gets to this level.”
Number three – refill your washer fluid
This useful liquid is used to help clear your windscreen and is typically composed of a mixture of water, cleaning agents and – importantly – anti-freeze compounds.
The AA advised: “Do this to make sure you’ve got clean vision through your windscreen.
“Don’t just use water, though – make sure you use a high quality additive to make sure it doesn’t freeze through the winter months.”
It’s absolutely crucial to make sure your windscreen is clear while driving.
If you fail to ensure you can see the road properly, you could land yourself in serious trouble.
The Highway Code requires all windscreens and windows to be kept clean and free from anything that blocks your vision.
It warns “before you set off, you must be able to see, so clear all snow and ice from all your windows” and goes on to state, “you must ensure that lights are clean and number plates are clearly visible and legible”.
This is backed up by section 41D of the Road Traffic Act 1988, which legally requires motorists to have a clear view of the road ahead before setting off.
If you drive with a blocked view, you risk receiving a fine or, even worse, being involved in a crash.