How to make your car winter-proof: you have to consider that

When winter approaches, it's time to make the car winter-proof. In this practical tip, we explain what to do and what you have to pay attention to.

Winterize your car: First, the winter tires

A popular rule of thumb is: "From O to O." This means the months from October to Easter. During this time you should put on your winter tires.

• So do not wait until the first snow to make an appointment for a tire change in the workshop: these are often fully booked for weeks.
• Even before the first snow, it can be freezing at night, then the wrong tires can quickly become life-threatening.
• In addition to winter tires, there are also all-season tires, so you can save yourself changing tires. However, inquire beforehand whether this is right for you.

Winterproof car thanks to antifreeze

Proper frost protection is just as important for the car as the timely fitting of the winter-proof tires. In the worst case, insufficient protection against frost can even lead to engine damage.

• First, you need the right antifreeze for the cooler system. Make sure that the product is also suitable for your car model.
• On the other hand, you need antifreeze for the windscreen wiper system. If necessary, you can also dilute the agent. So you have more of your money for longer.

Car battery for winter

Especially in winter, batteries like to give up the ghost. To prevent this from happening to you, you can use these tricks in advance:

• Charging the car battery: If you have a charger for the car battery, you should definitely use it again before winter.
• Jump-start cable: You should always have this in hand in your car, in addition to a tow rope.
• Change car battery: If the battery is already a few years old, it may be worthwhile to have a new one installed. Of course, you can also change the battery yourself.
• Check the lighting system: To be on the safe side, you can have your lighting system checked by the TÜV - usually free of charge in October.

Make doors and locks winter-proof

No matter how well protected the engine and the windscreen wiper system are from the low temperatures, it won't help you much if you can't even get in. Door locks and seals in particular can freeze in winter. You can also counteract this:

• You should treat rubber parts such as seals regularly, but at the latest before the onset of winter. You can do this with a rubber cleaner.
• It is advisable to always have a door lock deicer ready - at best not in the car. Instead, deposit the small bottles in the office or in the garage.

For the winter-proof car: You should still have that with you

Finally, it is advisable to always carry certain aids with you in the car:

• Ice scraper: The best thing is a small one for the thin layer of ice and a large scratch if the windows are frozen properly.
• Broom: This aid is often underestimated, which usually leads to wet jacket sleeves. Once your vehicle is covered by a thick layer of snow, you will thank the little broom.
• Gloves: It is not wrong to leave a few extra gloves in the car in the two cases just described.
• Covering film: This aid is also often underestimated and can save you a few minutes in freezing temperatures in winter.

Drying clothes in winter - the best tips

In the next practical tip, we will explain what you should do if you discover a plastic bottle stuck in the car.