How to Get Your Car Winter Ready
As the days grow shorter and temperatures begin to drop, now is the perfect time to give your car a proper winter check-up. A little preparation can save you from roadside dramas and help keep you and your passengers safe.
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Essential Winter Checks for Your Vehicle
Tyres
Cold, wet or icy roads change how tyres perform. It’s worth checking:
- The tread depth: While the legal minimum tread depth in the UK is 1.6 mm, experts recommend around 3 mm for better grip on icy or slippery roads.
- The tyre pressure: Pressure can drop as the weather cools, which impacts both safety and handling.
- The tyres themselves: Consider swapping in winter tyres for better traction in cold weather.
Fluids, coolant and screen-wash
- Make sure engine coolant/antifreeze levels are correct and top up if needed. This prevents the cooling system from freezing in low temperatures.
- Use a winter-grade windscreen wash. Standard screen wash might freeze, reducing visibility.
Battery & electrics
Cold mornings, increased heater use, lights on for longer… all this puts strain on your battery and electrical system. If your battery is a few years old, it’s worth getting it tested now to avoid issues in freezing weather.
Wipers, lights and visibility
Rain, mist, and snow can all impair visibility, so:
- Check your wiper blades. If they streak or smear, replace them before winter hits.
- Ensure all lights are functioning and clean, ready for those dark evenings. You need to be able to see, and be seen, clearly.
Stock a winter-ready kit
Because winter weather can be unpredictable, having a basic kit in your car can make a big difference if you ever get stuck. You might want to include an ice-scraper, de-icer, jump leads, a blanket, a torch, phone charger, and maybe a high-visibility jacket.
A Few Extra Checks You Might Not Have Thought About
- Clean underbody & door seals: Winter salt and grit can lead to corrosion or freezing door seals, so a quick clean and inspection can prolong your car’s life and prevent stuck doors.
- Check for small chips or cracks in your windscreen: Cold weather can worsen existing damage, so if you find any, try and get them repaired.
- Plan your journeys carefully: In frosty or icy conditions, think ahead. Allow extra time, adjust your driving, and avoid risky routes if possible.
Don’t Leave It to Luck: Book a Winter Health Check
Our winter health checks cover tyres, battery, antifreeze, lights, wipers, and more, ensuring your car is ready for whatever winter throws at it.
Book today and drive into the colder months with confidence.
