Tesco issues urgent ‘check before it’s too late’ warning

With temperatures dropping, nights closing in and winter coats being hooked out the cupboard, it’s easy to forget that your car will also be affected by the chilly weather.

However, internal data from revealed a 37% increase in ice and snow related claims last winter vs the year before.

Alex Cross, Chief Customer Officer at Tesco Insurance says: “As temperatures lower, your vehicle may be more susceptible to breaking down and driving conditions typically become more challenging all leading to an increase in claims. There are certain things people can do to reduce the risk to themselves and their vehicles, but it is important to check these things before it is too late.”

How to make sure you and your vehicle are ready for winter:

Look after your battery

If you are finding the car is slow to start, it may be a sign you need to invest in a new battery. The length of time it takes for a battery to die in an unused car varies, but generally cars should be fine to be left just under a month without driving without the battery dying. However, if you have a ‘power hungry’ car it might be a lot shorter. If you are unsure, visit your local garage to ensure your battery is in good condition before the cold weather really sets in.

Check your tyres

Icy roads are the norm for winter in the UK, so the condition and quality of your tyres will be crucial to your safety on slippery roads. While many countries in Europe require drivers to change to winter tyres by a certain date, in the UK this responsibility lies with the driver. With the potential for snow fall and ice not too far away, ensuring that you have tyres fit for purpose will help you prepare. Ensuring you have the correct depth of tread (1.6mm) and they are in good condition is vital to road safety in the winter months.

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Test your bulbs

Making sure things like your lights are working properly will be crucial in the darker season. Remember, car lights are for you to see and be seen. You may even be able to upgrade to brighter bulbs to aid your night time driving.

Is your car insurance about to expire?

Make sure you have the right insurance in place, so that you’re covered should the worst happen. Examine your existing plan and create a reminder for yourself a month before it expires to search for the best policy to suit your needs, for example, Tesco Clubcard holders can get clubcard prices on car insurance when you go direct to Tesco Insurance.

Keep some handy kit around

Ice build-up on windows and windscreens is commonplace in winter and as such, it would be wise to keep an ice scraper and de-icer in the car to make clearing your viewing spaces a little easier. This will also mean you don’t have to keep the engine running to clear the windscreen. Some warm, waterproof clothing, such as a coat, can also be useful if you find yourself having to wait for breakdown help. Winter kits for your car are widely available to buy and are a useful addition to your car boot over the winter months.