Winter Car Care: Updated Essential Tips 2025

Winter is here again, and while you might have ticked off a winter check earlier in the season, the cold months are when cars really get tested. From frosty starts and freezing temperatures to wet roads and reduced daylight, now's the time to revisit winter preparation and cover anything you might have missed. This updated guide gives you the most important car care checks — with practical tips that help keep you safer on the road this winter.

Cold weather significantly reduces a battery's capacity. A battery that struggled a little earlier in winter could completely fail on the coldest mornings, leaving you stuck.

What to do:

• ▸Ask for a free battery test — it's quick and can catch early weakness
• ▸Look for slow starts, dim lights, or dashboard battery warnings
• ▸Clean corroded terminals and secure the battery firmly

Antifreeze does more than stop freezing — it protects against corrosion, lubricates the water pump and stabilises engine temperatures.

Tip: Check your antifreeze at least once mid-winter to make sure it still protects well below freezing. Old or diluted coolant won't do the job when it matters most.

Tyres need extra attention in winter. Cold air causes pressure to drop regularly, and worn tread dramatically increases stopping distances on wet or icy roads.

Checklist:

• ▸Aim for 3mm+ tread depth in winter conditions
• ▸Check tyre pressure weekly, especially after big temperature changes
• ▸Consider winter tyres if you're in rural or hilly areas — they stay softer and grippier below 7°C

Winter has shorter days and more rain, spray and salt that dull light output.

• ▸Make sure every light works — headlights, brake lights, fog lights, indicators
• ▸Clean lenses regularly — a quick wipe at each fuel stop can boost visibility

Visibility matters more than ever in winter.

• ▸Use a winter-grade screenwash that protects below freezing
• ▸Replace worn wipers — frozen windscreen + worn blades = streaks and poor visibility
• ▸Defrost and demist fully before you move — driving with just a small "peephole" is illegal and dangerous

Important: Avoid using boiling water to de-ice — the thermal shock can crack your windscreen. Always use proper de-icers and scrapers.

Thinner winter-rated oil flows easier in cold conditions. If you haven't checked your oil grade yet, now's a good moment to match it to the temperature range before it gets colder.

Some hidden parts suffer quietly in winter.

• ▸**Belts and hoses:** Cold temperatures can expose cracks and wear
• ▸**Brake fluid:** Absorbed moisture can freeze — regular changes help maintain performance

Even with great maintenance, winter journeys can throw surprises your way.

Always carry:

• ▸Ice scraper and de-icer
• ▸Jump leads or jump-pack
• ▸Warm blanket, torch, phone charger
• ▸First-aid kit
• ▸Hi-viz vest, warning triangle

For longer trips: bottled water, snacks and a small shovel can make a big difference.

Freezing doesn't just affect engines — door locks, seals and fuel caps can ice up too.

Keep a small de-icer spray handy, and treat seals with talcum powder to stop them sticking.

Once your car is prepped, adjust how you drive too:

• ▸Allow longer journey times
• ▸Increase stopping distances
• ▸Use gentle acceleration and braking
• ▸Only use fog lights in heavy fog

A little preparation now can prevent breakdowns, reduce repair costs, and keep you safer all season. If you're unsure about any checks — battery condition, tyre health, lights, or fluids — book a full Winter Check with Your Local Mechanic.

We'll inspect the key areas, top up essentials like screenwash, and give you honest advice on what's ready and what needs attention.

Stay safe on the road this winter — and book your winter-ready check today!