A SIMPLE SEASONAL CHECK can reduce the risk of an unwanted breakdown, and winter closes in, the last thing you want is to be stuck by the side of the road on a freezing night.

Focusing on tyres, lights, wipers and essential fluids will help make the most of a winter journey.

Fuel costs are at record levels, so keeping a car in good condition will help you get the most from every drop of fuel or kilowatt‑hour of battery charge.

Correct tyre pressures alone can typically improve fuel economy by around three percent, while gentle acceleration, anticipating traffic flow and avoiding hard braking all help to reduce consumption and extend electric driving range. While that may not sound much, every little helps.

Many simple tasks can be completed at home with reference to your driver handbook. A local garage or mobile technician can help with anything more involved. After all, a car that’s fit for the road is safer, less stressful to drive and much less likely to let you down, which is good news for your wallet as well as for everyone’s safety.

Simple actions to avoid a breakdown:

• Inspect tyre pressures and tread depth. Check you have at least 3mm of tread by putting a 50c coin into the groove of a tyre. If you can see the outer band when the coin’s in the tread, your tyre is likely to be at or below the legal limit and needs replacing.
• Ensure all lights and indicators are working.
• Replace worn wiper blades and top up oil, coolant, brake and screen‑wash levels. ​ 
• If your car has been standing idle for long periods or the battery is more than five years old, ask your trusted garage to carry out a quick battery health check.