Winter is coming, and Bosch is offering a 28-point inspection for all motorists who book through its online system between 28 October and 31 January 2013. The Bosch Car Service network’s free Winter Check includes brakes, tyres and headlights.

Bosch says that an increasing number of drivers are skimping on regular car maintenance and inspections due to mounting financial pressure – and its research shows that around two thirds of all cars will go into winter without the most basic of checks.The company has a network of 530 service centres in the UK and Ireland, and work to the highest standard and a code of conduct that is fully approved by the Office of Fair Trading.

When you book online at www.boschcarservice.co.uk/winter, and you’ll be entered into a competition to win a Bosch Gold Annual Service for the life of your car.

Volkswagen is offering a free winter van check to commercial vehicle owners who visit approved repairers and centres across the UK. The 30 point check covers key areas such as the battery, lights, tyres, wipers and fluid levels. If the washer fluid is low it will be topped up with Volkswagen genuine screenwash –  certified to -70 degrees Celsius – for free. Volkswagen has also produced a video on winter safety.

‘People don’t realise the importance of basics like good quality screenwash which works at much lower temperatures than cheaper alternatives, or that the correct antifreeze level is essential to reduce the risk and cost of burst pipes or frozen water pumps,’ said Stephen Bateson, Head of Aftersales and Customer Service.