CRIGHTONS RETURN AS YOUR LOCAL SAAB SPECIALIST.
With over 30 years experience working on Saab’s, with the majority of that period as a franchise dealer, we are now in a position to share our knowledge and expertise with you once again!
Visit our Saab Specialist page for more information on the services we can offer for your Saab.
Preparing your car for winter is not only essential but easier than you think…
One of the most important steps is to check the tyres. Why? Only a small part of each tyre touches the road at one time and these small parts help you steer, accelerate and stop. This is quite a task even in perfect conditions so imagine the strain it puts on your car in icy, wet weather. Check for splits, tears and that the pressures are correct. Too much or too little air affects braking and stability, and causes premature wear. Furthermore, check the tread depth is adequate as this is all that clears rain water and slush. The legal minimum is 1.6mm across the central 75% of the tyre, and around its entire circumference. For superior performance, change tyres once their tread hits 3mm.
One of the most frequent challenges for winter drivers is poor visibility. So check your windscreen wipers are effective and also clean the windows, mirrors and lights. Check the bulbs too. Furthermore, concentrated screen wash in the vehicle’s reservoir needs to be a strong mix to prevent it freezing. Aim for 50% wash and 50% water if possible. It is also worth protecting your gleaming paintwork with a coat of wax, as salt from gritting lorries makes cars deteriorate quicker in winter.
These steps can be taken with very little mechanical knowledge, but some require a specialist. As such, it is worth popping your car into us for a winter check to look over the battery, anti-freeze, filters, belts, hoses and brakes. A winter check costs £19.99 but that is preferable to breaking down on Christmas day with a car full of excited kids!
It is also wise to carry a ‘supply kit’ in your car through the cold winter months. Windscreen de-icer is essential, as is a decent scraper. Warm clothing, fluorescent jackets and refreshments come in handy too – and it is sensible to have a tyre pump, warning triangle and shovel.
To discuss your winter motoring needs further, please call Nigel or Louis and they will make sure that you are all ready for the festivities!
