As autumn descends upon us, driving conditions begin to change. The weather becomes more unpredictable, leaves start to fall, and road conditions can become slippery. All these factors call for specific attention to your car and tyre maintenance. Here’s a roundup of essential tips, sourced from the experts*, to keep you driving safely this season.
Tyre Care in Autumn
Checking Tyre Pressure
- Regularly monitor your tyre pressure; fluctuating temperatures can cause it to vary.
- An under-inflated tyre can reduce your grip on wet roads, common during the autumn months.
Inspecting Tyre Tread Depth
- The legal minimum tread depth in Ireland is 1.6mm, but a deeper tread provides better grip on wet roads.
All-Season Tyres
- Consider all-season tyres that offer decent performance in a variety of conditions typical for autumn.
Alignment and Balance
- Proper tyre alignment and balance are essential to avoid uneven wear and to maintain good grip on slippery roads.
General Car Care
Battery Check
- With nights getting longer, you’ll be using your lights more often. Ensure your battery is fully charged and consider a replacement if it’s older than five years.
Windscreen and Lights
- Clean your windscreen and windows for optimum visibility, especially important during reduced daylight hours.
- Check that all your lights are functioning and replace any burnt-out bulbs.
Antifreeze Levels
- Although not as crucial as in winter, maintaining the correct antifreeze level can still benefit your engine during cooler autumn nights.
Emergency Kit
- Keep an emergency kit in your car, including essentials like a first-aid kit, bottled water, a torch, and a mobile phone charger.
Final Thoughts
Autumn brings its own set of driving conditions in Ireland, making vehicle maintenance a high priority. By adhering to these tips, you’ll be better equipped to navigate the challenges of autumnal driving.
For more tips and guidance, keep an eye on Cork Safety Alerts throughout the Autumn.
*Sources:
- RSA (Road Safety Authority of Ireland)
- AA Ireland
- Irish Tyre Industry Association
Drive safely this autumn! 🚗🍂