Resource created from thread - https://www.seatcupra.net/forums/threads/winter-checks-to-do-now.368337/
Hello all.
Just thought I'd put something together now that winter is setting in with wet and cold/freezing weather.
Below are some checks, both general advice and points more applicable to the seat group from past experiences..
VAG GROUP ISSUES:
Door carrier seals: Wet carpet? - These can leak as most of use know. http://www.seatcupra.net/forums/showthread.php?t=44216
Blocked drain holes: Right now leaves and muck in the drain holes near the scuttle can be blocked leading the leaks behind pedals or glovebox.
Pollen filter cover: As above can lead to leaks if not fitted correctly.
Coolant warning light: Coolant level is lower when outside temps are lower, bleeps and a warning light when first starting up the car (low coolant level) are common this time of year. Top up the coolant level a bit and/or clean prongs to help with this fault. Plenty of info on this forum for this.
Bonnet release mechanism: Salt and grime can build up, imagine not being able to open the bonnet, give it a clean out and good greasing.
Doors frozen shut: The door seals can get stuck following rain/freezing temps. Vaseline etc can help with this.
GENERAL ADVICE:
Tyres: Pressure and tread depth, change them sooner rather than later...
Battery: Is it in good condition? If it has been stuggling replace it now. Jump leads not a bad idea either.
Wipers: Are they in good condition?
Screenwash: Is it at the correct antifreeze mixture?
Spare screenwash: Some spare in the boot is a good idea, long journeys on motorways following a salting can use alot of screenwash. Make sure its not accessible to kids that might be temped to drink it and marked up appropriately. (No putting it in a drinks bottle etc...)
Clean windsreen inside and out: Helps keep vision clear and reduce glare
Ice scrapper: Doesnt need explaining, but clear more than a tiny spot and also other windows / mirrors.
Lights: Do they all work/are they clean?
Broom: For clearing car after show fall.
Petrol: Don't run fuel down low in case of extended journies / road blocks.
Door locks: Do they work, a bit of WD40 or the like is recommended.
Clothers: Nice warm jacket, gloves, hat etc are all good ideas. Sleeping bag? - sensible shoes, clothes, etc...
Drink: Usual advice is have some water in the car, - but also think before you drive if you have been drinking recently - including the night before at works parties etc.
Finally, but most importantly:
SLOW DOWN: Take a bit more time, set out a little earlier, be careful and be safe.
Hello all.
Just thought I'd put something together now that winter is setting in with wet and cold/freezing weather.
Below are some checks, both general advice and points more applicable to the seat group from past experiences..
VAG GROUP ISSUES:
Door carrier seals: Wet carpet? - These can leak as most of use know. http://www.seatcupra.net/forums/showthread.php?t=44216
Blocked drain holes: Right now leaves and muck in the drain holes near the scuttle can be blocked leading the leaks behind pedals or glovebox.
Pollen filter cover: As above can lead to leaks if not fitted correctly.
Coolant warning light: Coolant level is lower when outside temps are lower, bleeps and a warning light when first starting up the car (low coolant level) are common this time of year. Top up the coolant level a bit and/or clean prongs to help with this fault. Plenty of info on this forum for this.
Bonnet release mechanism: Salt and grime can build up, imagine not being able to open the bonnet, give it a clean out and good greasing.
Doors frozen shut: The door seals can get stuck following rain/freezing temps. Vaseline etc can help with this.
GENERAL ADVICE:
Tyres: Pressure and tread depth, change them sooner rather than later...
Battery: Is it in good condition? If it has been stuggling replace it now. Jump leads not a bad idea either.
Wipers: Are they in good condition?
Screenwash: Is it at the correct antifreeze mixture?
Spare screenwash: Some spare in the boot is a good idea, long journeys on motorways following a salting can use alot of screenwash. Make sure its not accessible to kids that might be temped to drink it and marked up appropriately. (No putting it in a drinks bottle etc...)
Clean windsreen inside and out: Helps keep vision clear and reduce glare
Ice scrapper: Doesnt need explaining, but clear more than a tiny spot and also other windows / mirrors.
Lights: Do they all work/are they clean?
Broom: For clearing car after show fall.
Petrol: Don't run fuel down low in case of extended journies / road blocks.
Door locks: Do they work, a bit of WD40 or the like is recommended.
Clothers: Nice warm jacket, gloves, hat etc are all good ideas. Sleeping bag? - sensible shoes, clothes, etc...
Drink: Usual advice is have some water in the car, - but also think before you drive if you have been drinking recently - including the night before at works parties etc.
Finally, but most importantly:
SLOW DOWN: Take a bit more time, set out a little earlier, be careful and be safe.