It’s important to prepare yourself for a breakdown at any time of year, but more so during the cold winter months.
You can help prevent your car from breaking down, by doing regular checks or having a health check or service before a long journey.
Here are some of the items to have in your car just incase:
Spare tyre or tyre repair kit - Many new cars don’t come with a spare tyre and will often have a puncture gel repair kit in its place. If you do still have a spare tyre then make sure it’s in good condition and suitable for use.
First aid kit - A complete first aid kit is handy to have just in case and if you’re travelling through Europe you’re legally required to have one in the car. In the winter its easy to slip and slide on the icy roads - always be prepared for the worst case scenario!
USB charger - Your phone is your primary means of rescue to call for help, but you can’t do this unless your battery is charged. Most cars now have a usb plug in the vehicle or you can plug one into the lighter socket. Keep your phone charged while you're out and about to be sure you always have battery.
Blanket - A blanket can help keep you warm if you have to wait for a recovery vehicle.
Waterproof coat - You may be out of your car for sometime so it’s important to wrap up warm and a waterproof coat will help keep you dry.
Ice scraper & de-icer - An ice scraper is important to clear your windscreen before you set off on a journey and de-icer can help speed up the process. Did you know: It is illegal to only scrape the snow off your windscreen and leave it on your roof as it can melt or move and block your vision.
Torch - A torch is always helpful to keep in your vehicle. If you've broken down this can help alert others to your presence in case of your battery going flat.
Unperishable snacks and water - Its always a good idea to keep unperishable food and water in case you get stuck somewhere for an extended amount of time.
Fuel container - If you run out of fuel and are within walking distance of a petrol station, you could fill up the empty container and be on your way.
Rock salt or sand - Useful to get out of an icy road or snowy patch.
Tow rope - Keeping a tow rope in your vehicle helps you to get out of sticky situations whether you have broken down or crashed.
Jump leads - Engines in older cars are more likely to seize up in the colder months so having jump leads will assist in getting the engine going again.
Washer fluid/ other fluids - Its always handy to make sure you can always see clearly through your windscreen and its easy to forget to top up your screen wash when you're racing to get the car heating on. Carry some with you so you can always top up your fluids and windscreen wash whenever needed.
These tools will help keep you safe and comfortable, whatever situation you find yourself in.
To help prevent any road surface complications, always fit winter tyres. They are designed and tested for temperatures of 7 degrees Celsius and below.
Book your tyre change now