Winter is the toughest time for any vehicle. Preparing your car in good time avoids breakdowns in sub-zero temperatures and protects the paint from salt and moisture.
Winter tyres are the most important thing: they offer significantly more grip in cold, snow and wet. Make sure there is enough tread – below four millimetres winter performance drops noticeably. Also check tyre pressure regularly, as cold lowers it.
Check the battery, as it loses power in the cold. A weak battery is the most common cause of breakdowns in winter. Use antifreeze in the coolant and washer fluid and replace old wiper blades.
Care for the paint before winter with a wash and wax, which protects against salt. Keep an ice scraper, gloves and jump leads handy – so you are ready for any situation.