Winter Vehicle Preparation Checklist

Winter weather can be tough on vehicles. Cold temperatures, wet roads, and reduced visibility all take their toll. Preparing your car for winter helps ensure it runs reliably and keeps you safe during the colder months. Here's our comprehensive winter preparation checklist.

Battery Check

Cold weather puts extra strain on batteries. A battery that's fine in summer may struggle to start your engine when temperatures drop. Have your battery tested before winter - most batteries last 3-5 years, so if yours is older, consider replacement. Also check that battery terminals are clean and connections are tight.

Antifreeze and Coolant

Ensure your coolant system has the correct antifreeze concentration to prevent freezing. A 50/50 mix of antifreeze and water typically protects down to -34°C. We can test your coolant concentration and top up if needed. Also check for leaks in hoses and the radiator.

Tyres

Tyres are crucial for winter safety. Check that your tread depth is at least 3mm for better wet grip - the legal minimum of 1.6mm is not enough for winter conditions. Consider winter tyres if you frequently drive in rural areas or need to travel during bad weather. Also check tyre pressures, as cold weather can cause them to drop.

Lights and Visibility

With shorter days and more rain, good visibility is essential. Check all lights are working - headlights, brake lights, indicators, and fog lights. Clean your headlight lenses if they've become cloudy. Replace worn wiper blades and top up screen wash with a winter-grade solution that won't freeze.

Brakes

Your brakes work harder in winter with wet and potentially icy roads. Have your brake pads and discs inspected, and ensure brake fluid is at the correct level. If your brake fluid hasn't been changed in two years, consider having it replaced, as it absorbs moisture over time which can affect braking performance.

Oil

Engine oil thickens in cold weather. If you're due for an oil change, consider switching to a winter-grade oil with better cold-start properties. Check your owner's manual for recommendations. Fresh oil also ensures better protection during cold starts when engine wear is highest.

Emergency Kit

Keep a winter emergency kit in your car:

• Ice scraper and de-icer
• Torch with spare batteries
• Warm blanket
• Jump leads
• Warning triangle
• First aid kit
• Phone charger

Additional Checks

• Check heater and demister are working properly
• Test air conditioning (helps clear condensation)
• Ensure door locks and seals aren't sticking
• Check spare tyre pressure