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Preparing the vehicle for winter

Despite the fact that preparing a vehicle for winter conditions is quite simple, our workshops are visited by quite a few unprepared drivers every winter. Every winter, between November and February, the number of vehicle breakdowns due to battery problems doubles. The most common causes of winter breakdowns are batteries, tires, brakes, lubricants and even a lack of antifreeze. These are relatively simple procedures, and at the same time, selling winter vehicle inspection packages is a very profitable business for workshops.
So why not encourage your customers to visit you now and get a winter inspection done before their vehicle gets stuck on the road in winter conditions?
Autodata supports you with dedicated modules that precisely define the procedures for checking and replacing batteries, as this is no longer as simple as it used to be. Vehicles are becoming increasingly complex and so are battery replacement procedures. In addition to the battery replacement procedure, Autodata also provides diagrams showing the locations and procedures for disconnecting batteries; instructions for preparing the battery for disconnection and a list of electrical components that need to be reset after reconnecting the battery.

In addition to the battery disconnect and reconnect module, Autodata offers many other modules that are useful for winter servicing. Including electrical component locations, wiring diagrams, wheel alignment, tire pressure and tire pressure monitoring systems, and air conditioning.

Therefore, we suggest that you contact your customers and not wait for them to come due to a breakdown. If you have a customer database, use it. Don’t scare them, but get in touch and inform them of the increased risks during the winter.

Building genuine relationships with your customers is very important and the cheapest and most important form of marketing. By contacting them, you confirm that you care.

A winter inspection usually includes an inspection of the following components:

  • battery,
  • brakes,
  • coolants,
  • oil, brake fluid and clutch fluid levels and condition,
  • heating and air conditioning systems,
  • light bulbs,
  • tire condition, pressure and tread depth,
  • wipers and windshield washer system,
  • door locks and seals (if necessary)
  • drive shaft cuffs,
  • belts.