Drivers face a £1,000 fine for forgetting to clean part of their car this winter – here’s why and how to avoid it

DRIVERS warned that they could face a £1,000 fine for failing to clean part of their car this winter.

With temperatures dropping, Brits will have to pay more attention to cleaning specific parts of their car to avoid a fine.

According to the car experts at , there are two areas of a car that require particular attention in winter.

To avoid unnecessary fines, drivers must ensure that their number plate is spotless before heading off.

Car experts have warned that drivers who don't clear their plate can get a fine of up to £1,000.

It must be visible to Automatic Number Plate Recognition (ANPR) cameras by law.

It's also important to ensure that your lights aren't obscured by grime or dulled by oxidisation of the lens plastic.

To combat the latter, a simple tip is rubbing toothpaste onto your headlights and rinsing with warm water and a cloth.

Scrap Car Comparison had more tips for winter cleaning too.

Most drivers start with the bodywork, but it is better to do the wheels first because as their usually the dirtiest part of the car.

Dan Gick, Managing Director at Scarp Car Comparison, said: "Winter driving requires more care when out on the roads, but also when your car is parked at home."

"It can be a chore to get out in the cold and clean your car, but you’ll always be thankful for it when it’s ensuring your safety and saving you from potential fines.

"Beyond that, we have seen many cars end up having to get scrapped because they haven’t been cared for, and over time have been taken hold of by rust.

"It is never good to say goodbye to a vehicle because it hasn’t been cared for properly, and a regular clean can be all it takes to avoid it!"