With summer over, now is the time to prepare your vehicle for autumn driving to stay as safe as possible on the road. Autumn driving conditions can be challenging with more chance of heavy rain and leaves on the roads causing vehicles to slip and slide. The season is also associated with evenings getting darker and cooler temperatures. Irrespective of whether you go by the meteorological calendar with the first day of autumn always 1 September, or the astrological calendar with autumn starting on 22 or 23 September, autumn is here. In this article from K&M Tyres and our sister garage K&M Citroen, based in Crowborough, East Sussex, we look at four ways to prepare your vehicle for autumn driving.
Four things to check as you prepare your vehicle for autumn driving
- Tyres
- Lights
- Fluids
- Windows
Worn tyres can be very dangerous in wet conditions
Check tyres carefully making sure they conform to legal limits in regards to depth of tread. This is 1.6mm in the UK and Europe across 75% of the tyre. However, it should be noted that most tyre and safety experts recommend a minimum depth of 3mm for tyre replacement. The tread of the tyre helps to disperse water away from the contact patch between the tyre and the road. With less tread, less water can be moved, which increases the risk of losing grip and traction and aquaplaning. Check all tyres, when you prepare your vehicle for autumn driving including the spare for any bulges, splits or other damage. Also, make sure they are the correct pressure.
- Tread depth
- Condition
- Tyre pressure
- Check spare tyre or tyre puncture repair kit
Ensure all lights are in full working order
With evenings drawing in, more time is spent driving in the dark. Lights therefore are an important thing to check when you prepare your vehicle for autumn driving. They must be working and this includes headlights, rear lights, indicators, brake lights, fog lamps and reversing lights. Do this with another person, so they can check everything is working, as you switch the lights on and off.
Check fluid levels including screen wash and engine coolant
Now is a good time to look under the bonnet and check everything is topped up including oil, engine coolant and screen wash. When topping up screen wash, always adhere to the manufacturer’s instructions. Engine coolant should be checked and the level should sit between the minimum and maximum. When checking the oil, wait ten minutes after the engine has been turned off.
- Oil
- Engine coolant
- Brake fluid
- Screen wash
Check windows and wiper blades when you prepare your vehicle for autumn driving
Autumn is associated with low sun and damp conditions, which are worse with a dirty windscreen. Keep all windows clean, using a microfiber cloth to help to stop them fogging up. Pay particular attention to your windscreen, both inside and outside and also check thoroughly for chips. These can often be repaired to prevent them developing into cracks. And don’t forget the wiper blades. Replace them if they are frayed and/or split and they should wipe without smearing. Always have sunglasses with you to block out the glare.
- Clean windows
- Check the windscreen
- Check wipers
How can K&M Tyres help you prepare your vehicle for autumn driving?
By going through our checklist, you will be prepared for driving in autumn. But if this seems a long list, why not check your car in for a complete health check? K&M Tyres is an independent tyre and car maintenance service centre in Crowborough, East Sussex. Call us on 01892 653131 to book your vehicle in for a tyre and general maintenance check. We also carry out MOTs, air conditioning, regassing, oil changes and battery checks.