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Drivers urged to check cars before winter from changing tyres to fixing lights

The cold weather is coming to the UK and now experts at Swinton Insurance have told drivers to check their cars before the winter season finally arrives

[Person checking their car]

It's important to check your vehicles in the winter(Image: Getty Images/iStockphoto)

Winter is one of the most dangerous time for drivers.

With frost, sleet and long nights it means motorists are at risk of low-visibility on the roads.

It is important for drivers to prepare their vehicles for winter driving as well as get a full mechanical check.

Thankfully, there are some steps that motorists can take to minimise their risk of breakdowns or collisions during the colder months.

The experts at Swinton Insurance have put together a list to outline the importance of preparing your car for winter.

From packing emergency breakdown kits to checking de-misters, there are a few things to bear in mind for the cold season.

[African American woman checking oil of car]

Winter could be the reason for many accidents on the road(Image: Getty Images)

Here's how to prepare your vehicle for the winter:

Windows: Use a de-icer or ice scraper on your car windows to clear ice before you drive.

De-misters: Check that your demisters are working properly before driving your car.

Lights: It's critical that all your lights headlights, brake lights and reversing lights are working properly before you drive.

Wing mirrors: While a misty or frosty windscreen is obvious, many drivers forget to check their wing mirrors before taking off.

Drivers are also advised to get a full mechanical check at the beginning of the winter season.

Many garages will offer them free of charge, or as a complimentary service when your car is in the shop.

Even road conditions can change during the colder season.

Since 48% of winter car accidents in the UK are a result of skidding, it's recommended to switch to winter tyres.

[Hand checking the air conditioner in the car, The cooling system in the car]

You can go to the garage for checks or do it yourself(Image: Getty Images)

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The experts also say to pack an emergency breakdown kit just in case your car fails on you.

Here are a few things you should pack with you:

• Mobile phone (fully charged) and an in-car charger
• De-icer and a scraper
• A battery jump-start kit of jump leads
• Emergency rations like food or warm drinks
• A telescopic or foldable snow shovel
• Tow rope
• A small container of salt or sand

It's also worth keeping a first-aid kit, a hazard warning triangle, hi-vis vest, bottled water, warn clothes and a torch.

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