Central motorists are being urged to “know your vehicle” ahead of the winter months.

That was the message a team of GWD Toyota Alexandra mechanics passed on to the 11 people who attended a recent Get Your Vehicle Winter Ready workshop.

The beginner course, organised by Central Otago Reap and presented by GWD, was designed to help people of all ages prepare their vehicle and ensure it was as safe as it could be in the lead up to winter.

Emma McLean, of CO Reap, said the aim was to support people in the community to better understand their vehicle, know where things were such as tyre pressure readings, and to have confidence in their vehicle. 

Among the large range of aspects covered were the importance of topping up and changing fluids, wheel alignments, changing a tyre, and discussion around the other option of gloop, which is available in more modern cars - a product similar to what is used for bike tyres. 

Emma said the workshop was the perfect environment for people to ask questions.

The free event, which took place on May 23, featured various stations where a car was set up so participants could try their hand at tasks and see what the mechanics were talking about under the bonnet.

Participants watch on while GWD Toyota Alexandra technician Ishan Tennakoon completes a demonstration. PHOTO: CO Reap

Service manager Chris Morris and his team also talked about what to do during a breakdown, or when someone gets a flat tyre, along with the vital essentials people should have in their car, and allowing extra time so they can drive to the conditions.

They also learned that warming up your vehicle for 10 minutes before setting off also adds more benefit than just a comfortable environment.

“It also warms up the engine and ensures oil is circulated, and also ensures that the windows are all clear from frost and you have good vision,” Chris said.

Another hint from the team of mechanics was to use the recirculate button for the heating to ensure air already heated is being circulated, not cold air from outside.

Get Your Vehicle Winter Ready was the second workshop of its kind hosted by CO Reap, with the first one launched last spring.

Emma said the plan was to offer them every six months.

A mechanic’s emergency check list for your car:

torch - one that doesn't require batteries (Phones have torches so have a charger in your car)

gloves 

Raincoat - hi vis

blanket

water 

snacks

To learn more about courses and workshops offered through CO Reap, visit its website.