Get your car winter-ready: the XCS checklist for the cold months
The days are getting shorter, the mornings cooler and here and there the first windscreen already needs scraping. The ideal moment to get your car ready for winter. At XCS Automotive in Merchtem we see it every year: those who have their car checked in autumn get through the cold months with far fewer worries. These are the points that really count.
1. Tyres: remember the 7 degree rule
Winter tyres are not a legal requirement in Belgium, but as soon as the temperature drops below 7 °C, summer tyres lose noticeable grip. Winter tyres or approved all-season tyres stay more flexible in the cold, so you brake in a shorter distance on a cold, wet road. A handy reminder: switch around Halloween and switch back around Easter.
Check the tread too. Legally at least 1.6 mm must remain, and below that you'll get a red certificate with a driving ban at the Flemish vehicle inspection. For winter tyres, tyre specialists recommend at least 4 mm. Heading to Germany, Austria or a ski trip? Winter tyre rules do apply there, so be sure to check them beforehand.
For tyres, we work with our neighbours at GS Banden. That way you're in good hands for servicing and tyres at one address in Merchtem.
2. The battery: the biggest winter breakdown
Cold weighs heavily on a starter battery. A battery that only just coped in summer often lets you down on a frosty morning, especially if you make lots of short trips. So have it tested before the real frost sets in, and replace it in time if it's on its last legs.
3. Coolant, screen wash and wiper blades
Check that the coolant protects sufficiently against frost and that the level is correct. Fill the screen wash with a winter product so it doesn't freeze when you need it most. And are your wiper blades leaving streaks? Now is the time to replace them, as in winter you drive more often in rain, slush and low sun.
4. See and be seen
In winter you drive in the dark for much of the time. Do all your lights work, are the headlights properly aligned and are the lenses not dull? A small effort, a big difference in safety, for you and for everyone you meet.
5. Don't forget the air conditioning
Air conditioning isn't just for summer. Because it dries the air, it helps clear misted windows quickly in winter. If your air conditioning no longer blows cold or smells musty, we're happy to check it. At XCS we service and recharge air conditioning with R134a and R1234yf. You'll find more on our air conditioning page.
6. Driving electric?
Electric cars feel the cold too: the range is noticeably lower in winter. If possible, pre-heat your car while it's still plugged into the charger, so you set off with a warm interior without asking extra of your battery.
Winter-ready without the hassle
Rather not lose time? Combine your winter check with your next service. Quinten and Jorne go through everything thoroughly for you, and with our free pick-up and delivery service throughout Merchtem, you don't even need to come to the garage. After every service you also receive a small gift from us.
Book an appointment today, email info@xcsautomotive.be or drop by at Stoofstraat 43 in Merchtem. We're open Monday to Friday from 8 am to 6 pm and on Saturday from 10 am to 5 pm.