• Heavy rain and standing water
• Fog and reduced visibility
• Frost-covered windscreens
• Strong crosswinds
• Slippery roads and longer braking distances
• Early morning and evening darkness

When your vehicle's safety systems are operating correctly, these conditions become easier to manage. When maintenance is neglected, even a minor issue can quickly become a major problem.

• Engine oil and filters
• Brake system components
• Steering and suspension
• Battery condition
• Tyres and tyre pressures
• Cooling system
• Lights and electrical systems
• Windscreen washers and wipers
• Drive belts and hoses

As an independently owned Repco Authorised Service centre, Neale Goad Automotive follows manufacturer servicing requirements using quality parts and lubricants.

Tyres: Tyres are your vehicle's only contact with the road. Worn tread reduces grip, especially on wet surfaces, increasing stopping distances and the likelihood of aquaplaning.

Brakes: Braking performance becomes even more important on slippery roads. Brake pads, rotors and brake fluid should be checked regularly to ensure predictable stopping power.

Battery: Cold weather can reduce battery performance, particularly if the battery is over three years old. Many battery failures occur during winter because the battery can no longer provide sufficient starting power.

Wipers and Washers: Effective windscreen visibility is critical during rain and fog. Worn wiper blades can smear water across the glass, making visibility significantly worse.

Lights: Headlights, brake lights and indicators are often used more frequently during winter due to reduced daylight hours and poor weather conditions.

• Worn tyres can increase stopping distances and reduce steering control.
• Weak batteries can place additional strain on charging systems.
• Low coolant levels may contribute to overheating or engine damage.
• Worn suspension components can affect tyre wear and vehicle handling.
• Faulty headlights can reduce visibility for both you and other road users.

Addressing these issues early is usually simpler and less expensive than dealing with a breakdown or repair later.

Did you know that tyre pressure naturally decreases as temperatures drop?

For every 10°C reduction in temperature, tyre pressure can fall by approximately 1 to 2 PSI. Under-inflated tyres can wear more quickly, reduce fuel efficiency and affect vehicle handling, making regular tyre pressure checks particularly important during winter.

• Have your vehicle serviced according to the manufacturer's schedule.
• Check tyre pressures monthly.
• Replace worn wiper blades before the rainy season.
• Test your battery annually, especially after three years of age.
• Ensure all lights are operating correctly.
• Keep washer bottles topped up.
• Allow extra braking distance on wet roads.
• Reduce speed during poor visibility conditions.