With summer officially having ended, it’s time to prepare for autumn driving conditions. While the turning of the leaves transforms the British landscape into a kaleidoscope of golds, ambers and reds, the new season can make for some challenging driving conditions. Make sure you’re ready with our autumn driving guide.

Eight Steps to Prepare Your Car for Safe Driving This Autumn

Step 1) Clean your windscreen. Grimy glass can exacerbate glare from the low autumn sun.

Step 2) Use a high quality screen-wash. Your car's handbook will show you how and where to apply it.

Step 3) Repair any scratches and chips in your windscreen. Scratches and/or chips in your windscreen can make the sun’s glare worse.

Step 4) Check your wiper blades (and replace them if necessary).

Step 5) Get rid of any damp items like coats and towels to help prevent condensation.

Step 6) Use sunglasses and visors to block out the sun’s glare.

Step 7) If the sun dazzles you, slow down.

Step 8) Use headlights to be visible to other road users.

 

How to Prepare for the Changing Autumn Weather

Beware of leaves on the road - they can make for slippery conditions. Remember to increase the distance between you and the car in front when road conditions are slippery/wet.

Watch out for deer particularly if you are travelling through a rural area. Autumn is rutting season (when males are chasing females) which means they are moving around more than usual. Be prepared to make an emergency stop if necessary. It is estimated that between 40,000 to 74,000 deer are killed or injured annually on UK roads. Deer activity peaks in autumn, a time when there is more traffic on the roads due to the shorter days.

Beware of ice on the road. Even though it's not winter yet, ice can appear. Again, increase the distance between you and other vehicles. Take special care if black ice has been reported.

Consider sun dazzle danger. If the sun is behind you, remember that those coming towards you may be dazzled and have their vision impacted. If the sun is in front of you, drivers behind you could be dazzled.

 

When to Replace Your Cars Battery

In general, car batteries last for about three to five years. If yours is struggling, replace it before winter sets in, when it will be under even more pressure. Batteries lose their charge quicker in colder temperatures. If you use your car infrequently, it is even more important to ensure your battery is in good working order before the winter months arrive.

 

Remember to check your bulbs

Check your bulbs regularly, ideally every few weeks. Be sure to also check your brakes and number plate lights.

Discover new and improved methods of cleaning your car headlights.

 

Remember to check your tyre tread

Tyres should have a minimum tread depth of 1.6mm. If yours are getting worn, replace them before wetter, more slippery conditions set in.

 

Remember to top up your antifreeze

Adding antifreeze throughout the year protects against corrosion and helps your car stay cool in warmer months. Antifreeze and coolant are often sold as a single product.

Your regular servicing should include an antifreeze check. If you’re not sure where to put antifreeze or which antifreeze to use, consult your car's handbook. Some garages offer free winter checks which include antifreeze.

 

What to carry in your car

Autumn is generally a mild season, but sudden cold snaps could mean your car is more liable to breaking down.

Consider keeping the following in your car for if the worst were to happen (e.g. an unexpected breakdown):