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As with all the changes in the seasons, they affect our cars in different ways and some steps need to be taken to prepare, protect and remedy against the new conditions you will be faced with as we plod on towards winter. So here's my top tips for making sure you and your motor are Autumn ready.
More after the Jump...
1. Dazzle from the Low Sun
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The low sun can cause a real headache for drivers in the Autumn months. As if it wasn't bad enough having the sun glaring in your eye, if it's been a while since you've given your windscreen some TLC then any dirt or grime will impair visibility even more. Improve your chances of being able to see in low sun by making sure you clean your window inside and out with good quality glass cleaner and keep your screenwash reservoir topped up with a screenwash which can withstand the freezing temperatures to come. If you are dazzled by the low sun, take it slow and drive carefully. It might be worth keeping a pair of sunglasses in your car too.
2. Battery Care
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Batteries don't enjoy cold weather so it's advisable to make sure it gets a health check now rather than to find out the hard way on a hard shoulder on a cold and frosty morning. Generally speaking you rely on the battery a lot more in winter with the heater, de-mister and headlamps working overtime. Take care with the load and ensure that you turn everything off before you leave your car.
3. Leaves
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As nice as they are to look at, finding your car has been blanketed in shedded leaves isn't my idea of fun. When it comes to removing them it's best not to sweep them across your paintwork because there's a chance that they will scratch it. As tedious a job as it might sound it's best to pick them off individually to avoid damage. Unfortunately, simply removing the leaves isn't always enough. Sometimes you get left with a leaf stain, particularly if they have been on your motor for a while.
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| example of a leaf stain src: polishedbliss.co.uk |
These are quite stubborn to remove. Make sure you use a product which is designed to lift sap and natural sugars such as Turtle Wax® Bug & Tar when dealing with leaf residue. Take your time with it and make sure that no leaf residue remains before you buff the stain away with a soft microfibre cloth.
4. Cold Temperatures
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According to the AA, winter is the time that the most breakdowns occur so it's wise to start preparing your car now by making sure that your antifreeze is topped up. If you need advice on antifreeze you can find it in my Antifreeze and Coolant 101 article.
5. Foggy Windows
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As temperatures drop, waiting for foggy windows to demist can be a real hassle. Using an anti-fogging solution to treat your windows can save you on time spent waiting around for your heater to kick in and do its job. I recommend Rain-X Antifog® for the job.
6. Slippery Driving Conditions
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The roads can be pretty treacherous in the Autumn months so now is a good time to ensure that your tyres are up to scratch. Remember the minimum legal tread depth is 1.6mm but it is recommended that you replace your tyre long before you reach this, especially when handling on the roads might not be the best due to weather conditions and debris from deciduous vegetation. If in doubt, do the 20p test as outlined above. You might wish to consider investing in winter tyres.
7. Heavy Rain
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Heavy rainstorms can decrease visibility and cause slippery driving conditions in an instant. When it’s bucketing it down you need to be sure that your wipers can handle the extra workload. Take time to make sure that they are in good nick – that the rubber is intact and that it makes constant contact with the windscreen. If your wiper blades are squeaking, leaving streaks and smears or missing bits then you should replace them. You might also consider giving your wiper blades a helping hand with Rain-X® Rain Repellent to improve wet weather visibility.
8. Dark Driving Conditions
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As the nights draw in your headlamps are going to have to be on top form. Make sure that your bulbs are working and aren't dim or flickering. If so it's time to get them replaced as soon as possible. If your headlamps are looking to worst for wear then take the time to remove any dirt or grim which might have collected and dulled their beam. I recommend Turtle Wax® Headlight Restorer kit for the job.
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*This article is for general advice only. Seek a professional mechanic's help if you are unsure.
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