Colder mornings and wet roads show up the small faults that went unnoticed all summer. At Cooke Coachbuilders, we build horseboxes to last, and a little attention before winter settles in goes a long way towards keeping them that way. Work through the list below before the weather turns properly.

Battery and electrics

  • Check the battery terminals for corrosion and make sure the connections are tight.
  • Switch on the living area lighting and fans to check they still work, and ask about a charger if the vehicle will sit unused for weeks.

Tyres, brakes and fluids

  • Check tread depth and pressures, including the spare.
  • Look over the brake pads and discs.
  • Check the brake fluid level.
  • Switch to a winter screen wash and check the antifreeze.

Seals, windows and roof

  • Inspect door and window seals for splits or gaps.
  • Check the roof joints and any bonded fittings. Water that finds a way in over winter tends to show up later as damp or staining.

The living area

  • Air it out after every trip and wipe condensation from windows and surfaces.
  • Leave cupboard doors slightly open between trips so air can circulate.

The horse area

  • Lift and rinse the matting after wet journeys and check it for wear.
  • Make sure the ramp, hinges and partition fittings move freely.
  • Clear leaves and debris from the roof vents and fans.
  • Look for any damp patches under the matting.

The water system

If the vehicle sits outside in freezing weather, drain or protect the water system and shower. Your handbook or the team that built the vehicle can tell you how yours is set up.

Underneath and paintwork

  • Wash the underside to clear road salt and grit.
  • Touch up small chips before moisture reaches bare metal. If the paintwork needs more than that, take a look at our respray and repair page.

If you’d rather have a professional eye on it, the team at Cooke Coachbuilders carries out full vehicle body checks at our factory for existing customers and can arrange dealer services and MOTs too. Book yours through our contact page or call 01270 588598.