As the nights draw in and the temperature drops, your chance of breaking down on UK roads increases. Why? Because winter can be tough on cars, especially if you haven’t prepared for the colder months.
Here’s our guide to get your car winter-ready, so you can stay safe and avoid getting stranded in the cold.
1. Check your battery
If your car breaks down on a frosty winter’s morning, it’s more than likely because your battery’s flat. Cold weather can really impact battery life, so get it checked and make sure it’s fully charged for the months ahead. Remember to replace your battery if it’s more than 3-4 years old.
Look for warning signs that your battery’s struggling in the cold:
- It takes longer to start or feels sluggish
- The engine keeps turning over slowly when you start the ignition
- The battery light starts flickering on your dashboard
2. Consider getting some winter tyres
If you’ve got to drive in snowy conditions, winter tyres are a great option as they’ll grip the road and reduce skidding. If you don’t have winter tyres, make sure your current tyres have at least 3mm of tread for better grip on icy roads.
Read our guide on how to look after your car's tyres.
3. Check your coolant levels
Antifreeze (also known as coolant) is crucial in cold weather. It prevents fluids from freezing and causing damage to your engine. Make sure your car has enough coolant to last the winter and top up if necessary.
Refill your windscreen wash and make sure it contains antifreeze, too. If the washer fluid freezes it can damage the jets. And, while you’re at it, test your wipers to make sure they’re in good condition, too. They should be able to clear your windscreen quickly and effectively, with no smears.
4. Make sure your lights are working
The days are much shorter in winter, so you’ll likely be driving around in the dark a lot more. It's important that your lights are on and working well, not only so you can be seen, but so you can spot any hazards such as flooding, potholes or animals in the road ahead.
Check that all your lights – headlights, indicators, fog lights and brake lights – are clean and in good working order.
Replace any blown bulbs straight away and keep spares in the car to avoid accidents on dark roads.
5. Get yourself an emergency kit
Always have an emergency kit in your car. You can buy breakdown kits online that contain things like hazard warning triangles, ropes, foot pumps and torches, which are great for getting you out of a fix. However, it's worth getting some essentials for you, too.
Make sure you have a blanket, ice scraper, de-icer and even a shovel if you expect snowy conditions. Also, carrying a phone charger, first-aid kit, food and water can be crucial if you break down.
Try to imagine the kind of things you'll need if you're stuck by the roadside for hours on end. A book, a woolly hat and gloves might just make all the difference.
6. Test your heaters
Make sure your car’s heater, defroster, and rear-window de-mister are working properly. This will ensure you have clear visibility and keep comfortable on long, cold journeys.
Signs that your heater isn't working efficiently include condensation inside the car, fogged up windows and, unsurprisingly, a car that doesn't warm up. If you're confident and know what you're doing, check the car's thermostat. Otherwise, ask your local garage.
If your thermostat's working but air isn't blowing around your car properly, your fan may be worn out. Try switching up the blower speed and if it doesn't make any difference, the motor might need to be replaced.
Lastly, when the engine's cold, check your coolant levels. Your car needs enough fluid in the radiator to heat your car well.
7. Check your oil
When was the last time you checked the oil levels in your car? It’s easy to forget but it can damage your engine if it gets too low. It’ll only take a minute and can prevent a breakdown.
Check your oil level by pulling out the dipstick, giving it a wipe and putting it back in. When you pull it out again, the oil level should be between the minimum and maximum lines.
Make sure the engine is cool before you start. If you've just driven the car, leave it for 10 minutes.
By following these steps, you’ll not only keep yourself safe but can also avoid breakdowns and costly repairs during the winter months.
Once you know the car's in good working order, it's time to drive. Check out our safe winter driving advice.
If your car is your pride and joy, you might also want to read this guide on how to protect your car's paintwork in winter.
