When the weather is bad and the nights come earlier, it's wise to do all you can to make sure that your vehicle is in the best and therefore safest condition. That's why it's important to get your motor serviced regularly.

IAM RoadSmart's head of technical policy and advice, Tim Shallcross, gives the following tips:

Make sure the oil and oil filter are changed on time and the correct engine oil is used. Neglecting an oil change or using the wrong oil is the quickest way to increase wear on a modern engine, especially turbochargers and pistons.

Anti-freeze must be checked every year and should be changed every other year. All year round the anti-freeze prevents corrosion inside the engine and helps protect the moving parts.

Change the timing or Cam belt according to the manufacturer's schedule. It might still look in perfect condition, but if the belt breaks, it will usually mean a new engine.

The same is true for the alternator drive belt, which must be inspected at each service and changed if worn or when the manufacturer recommends.

The cabin air filter or pollen filter. If it isn't changed on time, you may get debris in the heater unit which will mean misted up windows restricting your view.

Tim said: "Make sure the service is noted properly in the car's record book and the garage stamps it. A full, documented service history makes the car much easier to sell; no history or gaps can knock hundreds or even thousands of pounds off the price you'll get."