Get your Honda ready for the winter weather
Added: 05 November 2019
The days are getting shorter, temperatures are getting lower and the clocks have gone back. Winter is well and truly on its way. Now is a great time to check everything is as it should be on your Honda car ahead of the colder months so you can go into winter with complete peace of mind.
The cold and wet winter weather can put additional strain on your car. Although Honda cars are known for their robust build and reliability, you can never be too safe when it comes to looking after your car and the people inside it. A few checks now can save you some much bigger issues later in the season, as well as reducing your risk of a breakdown.
Here are things to check to make sure your Honda is ready for the winter weather.
Tyres
From a legal standpoint, your Honda’s tyres should have a minimum tread depth of 1.6mm. When the weather gets colder, however, it’s a good idea to have more. Aim for a minimum of 3mm during the winter months and replace any tyres once their tread depth drops to 2mm. If you live in the countryside or expect to be driving on roads that are unlikely to be treated when it snows, you may want to consider fitting your Honda with a set of winter tyres or snow socks.
Oil
Your car’s oil should be replaced roughly every six months. Check your oil is between the minimum and maximum mark on your Honda’s dipstick, and get it replaced if it’s running low.
Battery
According to the RAC, a flat battery is the biggest cause of breakdowns. Between the extra heating to combat the cold and increased use of headlights as the days get shorter, the harsh winter weather puts extra pressure on your car’s battery. If your car seems to be slow while starting or you suspect something isn’t right, get your Honda booked in for a service before winter hits.
Lights
You’ll be using your Honda’s headlights much more during the winter months, so now is a good time to check they’re working as they should be. With the winter weather bringing much more rain, snow, ice and fog than other seasons, it’s important to make sure other drivers and pedestrians can see you in good time. Make sure all of your exterior lights are working - including your headlamps and fog lights - and check that they are clean to ensure maximum visibility.
Wipers
Check your windscreen and rear wipers are free of cracks, splits or other damage so they can operate at full power when the winter rain arrives.
Supplies
Winter is the worst time of year to experience a breakdown or other problem with your car. While you can never fully prevent something going wrong, you can be prepared. Make sure you have an ice scraper and de-icer where you can easily reach them, and leave some blankets, high visibility clothing, a torch and anything else you might need in the boot.