While we may not be able to control the weather, we can at least be prepared for rapidly deteriorating conditions that can leave drivers coping with gale force winds, freezing fog, sleet, snow and, worst of all, ice.
Further highlighting vehicle occupant safety, the UK’s leading chassis systems supplier, TRW Automotive Aftermarket, is urging motorists and garages alike to ensure that the chassis systems (braking and steering & suspension) of the vehicle they are driving is properly checked and serviced before the cold weather sets in.
Serious Defects Pose Safety Risk
Despite the increase in new vehicles resulting from the scrappage schemes of the past few years, estimates suggest that several million cars with serious defects still remain on the European roads, posing a significant safety risk. In these difficult economic times, more and more drivers are making false economies and neglecting the maintenance of their vehicles.
The most common failure during cold weather is of course the battery, and it goes without saying, frozen coolant and screen wash due to insufficient additive or out of date antifreeze. But how often to we think of checking the braking and steering systems? They are of course the most safety critical parts of the car.
Importance of Regular Fluid Checks
Low or contaminated brake fluid can potentially lead to brake failure, which can be extremely dangerous and lead to accidents on the roads.
Brake fluid is integral to the braking process and therefore a true reading of its boiling point is essential to safe driving. It is impossible to accurately assess the quality of the fluid by looking – the only safe way is to test it. TRW strongly recommends that brake fluid is tested every year and changed at least every two years.
For garage use, TRW offers a high specification brake fluid tester, which works by measuring the true boiling point of the brake fluid itself – instead of measuring the water content as others do - in just a few seconds.
Brakes - For Safety’s Sake
In icy conditions, when the roads are slippery it’s even more important that the brakes are operating efficiently and essentially, evenly across an axle. If a front or rear wheel were to lock up, it could lead to a nasty spin and even an accident.
So a visual check of all brake hoses is essential. Any rubber hose – or indeed any rubber component - is susceptible to cracking at low temperatures, especially if age is a factor. Have a good look for any perforated, cracked, perished or leaking rubber parts and if you find any, replace immediately.
Check the calipers for any sign of undue corrosion, and seized pistons. It is best to do this after first cleaning the parts with TRW Brake Cleaner to make inspection easier,
Make sure you inspect the dust covers and boots. Any signs of cracking will lead to water ingress and potential problems - such as sticking pistons which could result in overheated pads leading to brake fade. Salt being used as a gritting agent on the roads only exacerbates the problem. Ensure the guide pins are not sticking and there is no restriction on pad movement.
When you check the calipers, have a look at the discs at the same time to make sure there are no excess signs of rust or blistering, which can leads to future problems. Also, check the brake pads and make sure they are well above the minimum thickness requirement. No point in doing half a job!
Condition of Cables
Handbrake cables are often overlooked. The outer sheath can be damaged during the cold weather allowing water ingress. In sub-zero temperatures this water freezes and restricts the handbrake cable movement. In extreme cases the handbrake won’t work at all but a more common problem would be the handbrake not releasing correctly.
Check the gaiters and bellows on the steering rack for signs or cracks or perished rubber. Any water ingress will result in rust and potential seizure of the rack.
This is of course accelerated in the winter when there is salt and grit spread on the road.
Shock Absorbers – Truly Safety Critical
Worn shock absorbers can be just as dangerous. They affect vehicle handling and traction, increase braking distances and significantly decrease the effectiveness of electronic assistance systems such as ESP, ABS and so on. As a consequence, the car cannot be controlled, the steering begins to shake and the car may skid and swerve off course.
TRW is currently fronting a campaign to increase the focus on shock absorbers and identify the part as truly safety critical after studies suggested that one in four vehicles in the European car parc has at least one defective shock absorber, increasing braking distance and putting lives at risk on our roads.
The main message for a safer drive is to is to check, check and check again – in advance of the colder weather.
“Defective parts put lives at risk on our roads – it really is that simple,” says TRW expert Roman Rotter. “The total European market for shock absorbers is estimated to be in the region of 20 million units – meaning that there are a phenomenal number of vehicles on our roads with defective shock absorbers. We are passionate in our desire to improve the standards of safety on our roads and will work tirelessly to communicate the message of fully functioning, regularly checked shock absorbers at every level.”
If you find a problem with any part, replace it immediately. It’s just not worth taking that chance.