Now that winter is well and truly here, it’s vital that you keep your car ready for the road. The RAC have a useful acronym to help make sure that you do the regular checks that will keep you safe and moving through the winter months – FORCES.

  • F is for FUEL: Make sure that you always have enough fuel for your journey, and then more. In wintry weather you may become involved in a delay or jam. Keeping the engine going with keep you warm and safe inside the car.
  • O is for OIL: Checking your oil level and topping up when necessary will avoid damage to your engine. Having the oil changed regularly will keep the engine well protected.
  • R is for RUBBER: Tyres that wear unevenly will tell you whether the pressures are properly adjusted or if there’ a fault with the steering. And remember, that all four tyres have to have at least a 3mm of depth in the tread to be legal, as well as giving you a strong grip in wet and icy conditions. Also take a good look at your wiper blades and replace them if necessary.
  • C is for COOLANT: Keep your coolant well topped up and with the recommended amount of anti-freeze included.
  • E is for ELECTRICS: Check your lights regularly including the indicators, brake lights and fog lamps too. Carrying some spare bulbs with you is always a good idea.
  • S is for SCREEN WASH: Even on a short journey you may find yourself using a lot of windscreen washer fluid. Check it weekly and use a cleaning fluid not just water. Keeping a spare supply of water in a spray nozzle bottle for freezing conditions will always be useful.

Their is more advice on the RAC website: rac.co.uk/drive/advice/driving-advice.