Seasonal Car Care: Prep Your Car for the Weather

Heat is hardest on the cooling system and the battery. Check the coolant level and look over the upper and lower radiator hoses for bulges or soft spots. Make sure the cooling fans run when the engine warms up, and that the radiator fins aren't packed with bugs and leaves. If your air conditioning blows weaker than last summer, get it looked at before the first heatwave rather than during it.

In a downpour, you can only drive as safely as you can see. Replace wiper blades that streak, judder or leave a film, which is usually every 6 to 12 months. Top up the washer bottle, and check that every headlight, tail light and indicator works. A cracked lens lets in moisture and shortens the life of the whole unit.

Cold shows up weak batteries first. If the engine has been slow to start, get the battery tested now. Check that the demister and heater work properly, because a foggy windscreen is a safety issue as much as an annoyance. If you drive through frosty or alpine areas, check your coolant is at the right strength for the lowest temperature you expect.

Good tread is what clears water from under the tyre and stops aquaplaning. Look for the wear bars in the grooves, and replace tyres that are close to them. Pressure changes with temperature too, so recheck it when the weather swings. Do it when the tyres are cold for an accurate reading.

Fog, rain and low sun all punish dim or yellowed headlights. If your lenses look hazy, or one beam is clearly weaker than the other, a replacement unit makes a real difference at night. Fog lights help in heavy rain and mist, when used responsibly and switched off once the air clears.