As winter approaches, UK drivers know the colder months can bring some challenging weather conditions. From frosty mornings to icy roads and unexpected snowfall, driving safely becomes a priority. To keep yourself and others safe on the road, now’s the perfect time to give your car a thorough winter check. Here’s a breakdown of the essential car checks you should carry out before winter driving.
1. Check Your Tyres: Tread Depth and Pressure
Proper tyre maintenance is crucial during the winter months, as your tyres are your vehicle’s only contact with the road. The legal minimum tread depth in the UK is 1.6mm, but for winter driving, a tread depth of at least 3mm is recommended to provide better grip on icy and wet roads. Low tread can lead to reduced traction and longer stopping distances, especially in snow or rain.
Don’t forget to check tyre pressure, too. Cold weather can cause air in your tyres to contract, so check and adjust pressures to the manufacturer's recommended levels.
2. Test Your Battery
Car batteries can struggle in colder weather, so now’s the time to make sure yours is in good health. If you notice your engine cranking slower than usual or your battery is over three years old, consider getting it tested. Battery replacements can be relatively inexpensive, and a new battery could be a lifesaver in freezing conditions, as older batteries are far more likely to fail when temperatures drop.
3. Ensure Windscreen Visibility
Winter weather can mean frosty, icy, or even snowy windscreens. Ensure that your windscreen wipers are in good condition—replace them if they’re worn or leaving streaks. Visibility can be a major safety factor in winter, so don’t skip this!
Top up your windscreen washer fluid with a solution that includes antifreeze properties, as regular water can freeze and render your washer jets useless. You should also check for any small cracks or chips in your windscreen, as these can worsen in the cold and potentially require full replacements.
4. Test All Lights and Indicators
With shorter days and more driving in the dark, fully functional lights are essential. Test your headlights, brake lights, indicators, and fog lights to ensure they’re all in good working order. Replace any blown bulbs, and if your headlights are cloudy or yellowed, consider having them restored or replaced to improve visibility.
5. Top Up Engine Fluids
Check your car’s oil, coolant, and brake fluid levels. Oil can thicken in cold temperatures, so it’s important to have enough to keep your engine well-lubricated. Make sure your coolant level is topped up and has the right mixture of antifreeze. This will protect your engine from freezing in low temperatures.
If you’re unsure, consult your car’s owner’s manual or a professional for the correct winter coolant mix, as it’s usually a higher concentration than in the summer.
6. Inspect Your Brakes
Good brakes are always critical, but winter weather can add strain to your braking system. If you notice any signs of wear—such as squealing, grinding, or reduced braking performance—get your brakes checked as soon as possible. Ensuring your brakes are in good condition helps keep you safe in all conditions, especially on icy or wet roads where stopping distances are longer.
7. Check Heater and Demister Functionality
You don’t want to be stuck on a frosty morning without a working heater or demister. Turn on your car’s heater and make sure it’s providing warm air. This isn’t just for comfort; it’s essential for keeping your windows clear of condensation and ice. Your demisters should work effectively to ensure maximum visibility.
8. Keep a Winter Emergency Kit
Prepare for the unexpected by keeping a winter emergency kit in your car. Essentials to include are:
- A torch and extra batteries
- A blanket or warm clothing
- High-energy snacks and bottled water
- A portable phone charger
- An ice scraper and de-icer
- Jump leads
- A shovel (in case of heavy snow)
- A warning triangle and high-visibility vest
This kit can be a real lifesaver if you’re stranded in winter weather or experience a breakdown.
9. Inspect Suspension and Steering
Winter driving can put additional strain on your car’s suspension and steering systems, especially with potholes and icy conditions on the roads. Have a professional mechanic inspect your suspension and steering to ensure they’re in top shape.
10. Plan for Regular Maintenance
Consider scheduling a winter service for your vehicle. A professional check-up can catch any potential issues that may not be visible and ensure your car is fully road-ready for the season.
Final Tips
Finally, don’t forget to allow extra time to defrost your car before setting off. Driving with limited visibility due to fogged or frosted windows is dangerous and illegal. Always keep a scraper and de-icer on hand to clear your windscreen thoroughly. And remember to plan your routes, checking for road closures or poor conditions due to weather, and take it slow in potentially icy areas.
These essential winter checks can help ensure that you’re ready to tackle the British winter roads with confidence. By preparing now, you’ll be safer and more resilient, no matter what the winter weather brings. Safe driving!
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