This content was provided on behalf of Vardens Ltd

Wheels and Tyres

It goes without saying that you need to check your tyres before the onset of winter, worn tyres are no match for icy, slippery roads.

As well as checking the tread, inspect the sidewalls and look out for any cuts or bulges – if they’re not fit for purpose, get them replaced.

Regularly checking the air in your tyres is particularly important during the winter months as the air shrinks in cold temperatures leaving your tyres underinflated.

Just like your paintwork, your wheels also need a good layer of protective wax as they too can be damaged by winter weather. Waxing your wheels prevents the build-up of brake dust, which is a year round problem, as well as repelling snow and ice.

Although the prospect of it sounds less than appealing, cleaning your wheels throughout winter is really important.

You don’t need to spend hours scrubbing away, just give them a quick wash with a non-aggressive wheel cleaner and make sure that you’ve removed any brake dust and road salt.

It’s surprising how quickly rims can corrode when they’re not properly protected.

Washing Your Vehicles

During the winter months when the weather is particularly bad, you should ideally wash your car every 10 days with fresh water and a high pressure hose.

Warm soapy water and a good quality wash-mitt is always a winner, adding a small amount of baking soda will also help dissolve dried on salt.

Pay particular attention to the underside of your car where salt and snow can really build up and take extra care when cleaning behind mud flaps, under door handles as well as door and boot seals, hard to reach places and areas where water can pool and get trapped.