Volkswagen commercial vehicle drivers are being offered a free winter check now available from Volkswagen Van Centres and authorised repairers across the UK to help avoid breakdowns.

The 30-point check includes essentials such as battery, lights, tyres, wipers and washers, plus screenwash and antifreeze levels.

Over the past two winters, Volkswagen Roadside Assistance has attended 2,500 battery related call-outs and 700 wiper and washer related call-outs.

If the screenwash is low, it will be topped up for free with Volkswagen's screenwash, which can cope with temperatures of -70°C. If any items need replacing, a range of Volkswagen-approved parts will be offered, at what the company claims are competitive prices.

"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.

"This free winter check will help van drivers keep their vehicles on the road this winter, and save the cost of unnecessary repairs and lost business if they breakdown."