Winter brings a special kind of magic, with sparkling snowflakes and festive cheer. But it also brings a unique set of challenges for drivers. Snow, ice, and wet conditions can make roads hazardous, requiring extra care and preparation to ensure you and your passengers stay safe.

It's dangerous to drive on bald tyres, or tyres with incorrect inflation. Now is the time to check how much tread depth you have. If you notice spots which are worn unevenly, this could indicate that your shock absorbers or some other vital part of your steering and suspension systems are due for service or replacement.

Driving on incorrectly inflated tyres won't just cost you money on additional fuel; it can also impact your braking ability. You can usually find manufacturers recommendations on a panel inside the driver side door.

Who hasn't had that moment when you turn on the wipers at the first spot of rain and realise they haven't been replaced in years! Wiper blades wear out over time, especially in the harsh Australian conditions. A good quality wiper blade like Trico is essential to help you see your way clear regardless of the weather. Robinson Auto Repairs can recommend a wiper blade or assembly that is right for your car.

Ensuring your headlights, taillights, and fog lights are clean and functional are vital for visability. Make sure they are working correctly and replace any burnt-out bulbs.

Fluids and other mechanisms in your car can be impacted by cold weather; this includes coolants, oils, brake fluids, wiper fluid and items such as glow plugs in diesel vehicles. It's important to have your car serviced regularly by a qualified mechanic who understands the right parts and products to keep your car in peak operating condition. We use high quality NGK glow plugs and Penrite oils and fluids that are designed for Australian conditions.

Cold weather can impact your battery's performance. Make sure it is in good condition and fully charged. Don't forget to check the terminals are free of corrosion as this could be a sign of a faulty battery. Corroded battery terminals are a common cause of reduced battery life and electrical problems in cars.

Keep a look out for the warning signs that your brakes need inspecting, like vibrating, spongy or slow responding brake pedal, strange sounds or difficult handling when applying pressure to your brakes. If you notice any of these it's best to have a qualified professional check it out.

Remember to always drive to the conditions. If visibility is poor or the weather is wet - slow down and leave a larger than normal stopping distance between yourself and the vehicle in front.

Avoiding sudden movements and making gradual changes to speed and direction will help avoid potetial skidding. If your car does start to skid, don't panic. Steer in the direction you want the front wheels to go and avoid slamming your brakes.

Turn on your headlights to increase your visibility to other drivers. In heavy rain, use your low beams to avoid glare. Make sure to use indicators when necessary and put them on a little earlier than you're used to, so that other drivers can be prepared for your movement.

Avoid the use of cruise control in wet conditions. It can cause your vehicle to accelerate unexpectedly if you start to hydroplane. Driving through large puddles can also cause hydroplaning and potentially flood your engine. If you can't avoid a puddle, drive through it slow and steadily.

We understand the importance of keeping your vehicle in peak condition, especially during the challenging winter months. Our team of experienced professionals is here to ensure your car is ready to tackle any weather conditions. From comprehensive tyre checks and brake inspections to battery tests and antifreeze top-ups, we've got you covered.

Visit Robinson Auto Repairs today for all your vehicle maintenance needs and drive with confidence knowing you're prepared for whatever winter throws your way.