Prepare for Winter with ATS Euromaster

Nationwide fast-fit network ATS Euromaster is urging drivers across the UK to ensure their cars and vans are prepared for winter by taking advantage of a free vehicle health check. Designed to guard against unnecessary breakdowns, the no-obligation inspections are available at any of ATS Euromaster’s 490 service centres across England, Northern Ireland, Scotland and Wales, and can be performed without booking beforehand.

According to ATS Euromaster, the vehicle health checks are suitable for any make, model and age of car or van, whether private or company-owned, and each check takes just fifteen minutes. The inspection covers tyre tread depth, tyre condition, tyre pressure and includes a visual inspections of front brakes, battery, exhaust and shock absorbers, with a written report issued to drivers upon completion.

Commenting on the service, Russell Fleetwood, National Car Sales director at ATS Euromaster, said “breakdowns nearly double when the cold weather sets in, but with a little pre-winter preparation drivers can ensure their cars are in tip-top condition. What’s more, spending a few minutes sorting out issues now usually proves cheaper and more convenient than trying to rectify the problem when your car won’t start on a cold winter’s morning.”

“The onset of winter also sees the number of road traffic accidents peak, as drivers struggle for grip on snow and ice-covered roads. This makes it essential to ensure that tyres are properly inflated and have plenty of remaining tread, as they are the only part of a vehicle in direct contact with the road’s surface. For cars without run-flat tyres, a good condition spare in the boot is also essential for emergencies,” he added.

Last winter ATS Euromaster technicians performed thousands of free vehicle health checks and provided advice to motorists in preparation for the colder months. The most commonly found defects were under-inflated tyres and tyres with less than 1.6mm of tread remaining (the legal limit – although ATS Euromaster, in line with many vehicle and tyre manufacturers, recommend replacement at 3mm).

To complement its vehicle health checks, ATS Euromaster is also advising motorists to ensure they are prepared for possible delays and emergencies on the roads this winter, by carrying the following items in their vehicles:

De-icer spray / ice scraper
First aid kit
Winter coat / blanket
Sturdy shoes (e.g. boots)
Torch and spare batteries
Warning triangle, jump leads and tow rope
Road atlas / satellite navigation unit
Hands-free mobile phone
Shovel
Soft drink and snack (in case of long delays)

Motorists looking to find their local ATS Euromaster centre should call 0800 505 505, text ‘tyres’ to 82025 (the charge for this is the same as for a normal text message) or visit www.atseuromaster.co.uk.