Millions of motorists admit that they have no idea how to change their antifreeze ahead of a snowy winter
MILLIONS of drivers are clueless when it comes to changing the antifreeze in their car - with 40 per cent admitting to not knowing.
Half of drivers also haven't performed any maintenance checks on their car ahead of the winter months when motors are most likely to throw up problems.
Shockingly, a survey by car maintenance store Halfords also revealed that one in 10 motorists avoided driving in winter altogether.
Meanwhile, one in six drivers have no idea how to adjust their headlights to full beams, which is essential when driving on unlit roads. This should not be confused for fog lights - as using full beams in fog will just reflect the light back.
Vulnerable car components in winter are the car battery, starter and alternator, however a whopping three quarters of drivers don't know the importance of checking the charge at this time of year.
This is because the chemical process in car batteries can slow down when temperatures drop, reducing its ability to hold any kind of charge.
Antifreeze and coolants will differ for each car - you can ask your local car maintenance store or mechanic which one will suit your model best.
Halfords website, for example, simply requires you to type in your registration plate for a list of appropriate products.
Some coolants may also require a 50:50 mix with water, while others can be poured straight into the reservoir.
Before you begin to top up the antifreeze, make sure that the engine is completely cooled as pressure can build up and erupt with steam if the cap is taken off when the motor is hot.
When the car is parked on a level surface with the engine off, pour coolant in between the minimum and maximum marks on the tank.
Coolant levels should be checked once a week, and topped up annually - although this may be done when your car goes into service every year anyway.
Other winter maintenance tips include to to never de-ice your windscreen by pouring boiling water over it as it can crack - a fact a tenth of drivers didn't know according to the survey.
'Portholing' can also lead to a £60 fine for drivers in a rush to get going without clearing their windows fully.
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Ella Colley, who commissioned the survey by Halfords, said: "It’s concerning that so few people perform the relevant checks on their vehicle ahead of winter.
"Purchasing antifreeze, changing tyres to ensure better grip on the road and getting your brakes checked are all simple measures motorists can take if they plan to drive over the colder, darker months.
"Do check your car battery, top up on windscreen washer fluid and ensure your lights are in good working condition too.
"In fact, it's important to take the time to check your car all over to make sure it’s in the best possible condition before winter arrives."