How to Prepare Your Car for Winter
Complete winter preparation checklist. Essential tasks to keep your car running safely through cold weather, ice, and snow.
Why Winter Preparation Matters
Winter puts extra strain on your car. Cold temperatures, ice, salt, and longer nights increase the risk of breakdowns. Proper preparation keeps you safe and mobile all winter.
Essential Winter Checks
1. Battery Check
Why: Cold weather significantly reduces battery power. A weak battery that works in summer will fail in winter.
What to do:
- Get battery tested at a garage or parts shop (usually free)
- Replace if battery is 5+ years old or shows signs of weakness
- Clean battery terminals to ensure good connection
- Check battery is securely mounted
2. Antifreeze/Coolant Check
Why: Prevents engine block from freezing and cracking (£££ repair)
What to do:
- Check coolant level is between MIN and MAX
- Get antifreeze concentration tested (should protect to at least -20°C)
- Most modern coolant is pre-mixed 50/50 (protects to -34°C)
- Top up or replace if needed - never add plain water in winter
3. Tyres
Why: Worn tyres dangerous in wet/icy conditions. Cold weather hardens rubber.
What to do:
- Check tread depth - minimum 3mm for winter (legal minimum is 1.6mm)
- Check pressures - cold weather reduces pressure
- Look for cracks or damage
- Consider winter tyres if you live in areas with regular snow/ice
4. Lights
Why: Darker mornings and evenings mean you'll use lights much more
What to do:
- Check all bulbs work (headlights, indicators, brake lights, rear lights)
- Clean all light lenses - dirt reduces brightness by 50%
- Replace any blown bulbs immediately
- Consider replacing old/dim bulbs before they fail
5. Wiper Blades & Washer Fluid
Why: Rain, sleet, and road spray reduce visibility dramatically
What to do:
- Replace wiper blades if they streak or chatter (replace yearly)
- Fill washer fluid reservoir with winter screen wash
- Use screen wash rated to at least -10°C to prevent freezing
- Check rear wiper blade too
6. Engine Oil
Why: Cold oil is thicker - harder for engine to start
What to do:
- Check oil level
- If service is due soon, get it done before winter
- Fresh oil flows better in cold weather
- Consider lower viscosity oil if you live in very cold areas (check handbook)
Winter Emergency Kit
Keep these items in your car throughout winter:
Essential Items:
- Ice scraper - plastic blade for windows
- De-icer spray - for frozen locks and windscreens
- Jump leads or portable jump starter
- Warning triangle
- High-vis vest
- First aid kit
Nice to Have:
- Blanket - in case of breakdown
- Torch with spare batteries
- Snacks & water - energy if stuck
- Phone charger - car adapter or power bank
- Small shovel - for snow
- Old carpet/mats - for grip if stuck
Winter Driving Tips
| Situation | What To Do |
|---|---|
| Ice/Snow | Gentle inputs, slow down early, increase following distance to 10 seconds |
| Frozen Screen | Never use hot water (cracks glass). Use de-icer, scraper, warm air. Clear ALL windows |
| Frozen Locks | Use de-icer spray. Warm key with lighter/hands. Never force |
| Cold Start | Don't rev hard when cold. Let engine warm up for 30 seconds, then drive gently |
| Stuck in Snow | Rock gently back/forth, use 2nd gear, put mat under wheels. Don't spin wheels |
Common Winter Problems & Solutions
- Won't start: Usually battery. Jump start or call breakdown. Prevent with battery check
- Frozen screen wash: Used summer wash? It freezes at 0°C. Use winter formula (-10°C+)
- Condensation inside: Check heater works. Leave windows slightly open overnight. Use dehumidifier
- Sluggish performance: Cold air is denser - normal. Also check fuel filter isn't blocked
- Diesel won't start: Diesel can 'gel' below -7°C. Use winter diesel or additive
Track Your Winter Preparation
Log winter checks, battery tests, and all maintenance in AutoChain. Get reminders for annual winter preparation.