Drive Safely During Winter in Victor Harbor

Drive Safer this Winter with a 65 Point Vehicle Safety Inspection

Our qualified technicians will visually check over the important components of your vehicle and provide you with a report on the condition of your vehicle at every Minor, Major or Logbook Service. We can then help you understand any concerns which may need to be attended so that you can drive safe this winter with Fleurieu Automotive, Your Local Repco Authorised Service in Victor Harbor.

Have your car ready for winter driving. So what ways can you make sure your car is set for safe winter motoring?

Safe Winter Driving Maintenance Tips

Windscreen Wipers - Making it clear

Who hasn't had that moment when you turn on the wipers at the first drop of rain and realise they haven't been replaced in years! Constant exposure to the Australian conditions means your wipers will wear out. A good quality wiper blade like Trico is essential to help you see your way clear regardless of the weather. Fleurieu Automotive can recommend a wiper blade or assembly that is right for your car.

Fluids - Keep your fluids up

Fluids and other components in your car can be effected by cold weather; including coolants, oils and items such as glow plugs in diesel vehicles. Regular services are important - especially by a professional who knows the right products and parts for your vehicle's needs. We use high quality NGK glow plugs and Penrite oils and fluids that are designed for Australian conditions.

Headlights - Be Seen

Functioning headlights are essential, particularly during winter when daylight hours are short and weather conditions can make visibility poor. They ensure you can see clearly in rain, fog, or snow, helping you spot hazards and navigate safely. Equally important, they allow other road users to see you, reducing the risk of accidents in darker or low-visibility situations. Regularly checking that your headlights are clean and working properly is a simple yet crucial step in staying safe on the roads during the colder months.

Batteries - Don't Be Flat

Cold weather can significantly affect your car battery’s performance. As temperatures drop, the chemical reactions within the battery slow down, making it harder for the battery to generate sufficient power to start your car. This is especially noticeable during frosty mornings when your vehicle struggles to turn over. You might also notice dim headlights, slower electric window functions, or an illuminated battery warning light on the dashboard. Testing your battery during colder months is crucial, and the team at Fleurieu Automotive in Victor Harbor is here to help.

Brakes - Could you stop in time?

Be aware of the signals that your brakes need to be looked at, like vibrating, spongy or slow responding brake pedal, strange sounds or difficult handling when applying pressure to your brakes. If you are experiencing any of these you should get it checked out by a qualified mechanic. Brake inspections form part of our 65 Point Vehicle Inspection Report, so if you have concerns call us today and book in.

Safety Inspections - A Top Priority

As the seasons shift, especially with winter approaching, ensuring your vehicle is in safe working condition is essential. A thorough Vehicle Safety Inspection helps identify any potential issues that could compromise safety, such as worn tyres, faulty brakes, or dim headlights, all of which are particularly crucial when driving in harsher weather conditions. Winter often brings icy roads, reduced visibility, and colder temperatures, which can place additional strain on your car. Addressing these concerns in advance not only keeps you and your passengers safer but can also help prevent costly repairs down the line. Taking the time to prioritise this check can make a significant difference to your peace of mind and your journey’s reliability.

Driving - Drive to the changing conditions

It's essential to drive to the road 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. Drive on the safe side and book in today for a service or a 65 Point Vehicle Inspection Report.

Tyres - Do you have grip?

Driving on worn or incorrectly inflated tyres can be dangerous. Now is the time to check how worn your tyres are. If your tyres are wearing 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. Find out more about the components that affect your tyre wear on the links below:

Tyres - Do you have the Right Pressure?

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

Safe-T-Stop - Brake & Suspension Testing

Fleurieu Automotive has a state of the art Safe T Stop machine that can accurately test for shocker and brake wear and tear and provide you with a detailed report on the state of your vehicles ability to stop in an emergency. Call us today to book in for a Safe T Stop test.

RAA Approved Contractor

Fleurieu Automotive is proud to be an RAA Approved Contractor, providing trusted Roadside and Breakdown assistance across the Victor Harbor region. Known for reliable and professional service, we are committed to getting you back on the road quickly and safely whenever you need support.

For expert advice or assistance with your winter car maintenance, visit Fleurieu Automotive in Victor Harbor. We’re here to keep you safe and on the road all season long.