Top five things motorists should remember before heading out in the cold – it could save you £1,000 in fines

THOSE are the five essential things drivers need to know before heading out into the cold.

With the mornings getting colder now, it’s safe to say that your car is in need of a little more maintenance than usual.

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car experts at Looking4.com have compiled the best tips for driving and caring for your car during the colder months.

First, check the pressure and tread depth of your tires because they are key to steering and braking.

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You should consider winter tires for winter driving, but ask your mechanic if this is the best option for your car.

Auto experts recommend de-icing your car by starting the engine and turning on the warm air blower right on the windshield.

Having an ice scraper in your car is also extremely helpful and it only costs around £10 online.

Keeping your windshield wipers in good working order is essential for safe diving, even in winter.

Getting caught driving with a dirty or covered screen can result in hefty fines and points on your driver’s license.

A common mistake many drivers make is to use the windshield wipers when defrosting their car in the morning.

This can cause windshield wipers to break and damage your windshield and burn out the wiper motor, potentially leading to high repair costs.

It’s also important to keep an eye on the wiper blades and replace them if necessary so that they can be used to their full potential in heavy weather.

It may be time to change your battery because the last thing you want is to be stuck in the cold with a dead battery.

Unfortunately, the cold weather can take a toll on battery life.

And remember, it’s important to keep hydration at optimal levels during the cooler months.

Coolant should be topped up whenever the liquid falls below the line markings and should consist of a 50/50 ratio of water to antifreeze as a basic guide.