Do’s and don’ts to keep your car safe in winter

1. How to prepare your car for winter

Before winter fully sets in, it’s worth giving your car a pre-season check. Here’s what to do before the cold weather hits:

Get a winter service

• A professional winter service ensures key components like brakes, battery, and engine are in top condition.

Switch to winter tyres

• Winter tyres provide better grip in cold, wet, and icy conditions, helping improve safety on slippery roads.

Stock up on essentials

• Keep an ice scraper, de-icer, and a windscreen cover in your car to make early morning starts easier.

2. Common winter car problems and how to avoid them

Certain issues are more common in winter, but with a little planning, most can be prevented:

Frozen locks

• Prevent frozen locks by applying a silicone spray or lock lubricant. If your lock is already frozen, use a de-icer or gently warm the key.

Foggy windscreen

• Keep your windscreen clear by using the air conditioning or a demister. Cleaning the glass inside and out also helps reduce fogging.

Worn wiper blades

• Winter weather can be harsh on wiper blades. Replace them if they leave streaks or struggle to clear the windscreen.

3. Do’s and don’ts for winter car maintenance

Do:

Give your battery some love

• Cold weather drains battery life faster. Get it checked if it’s a few years old, or you could end up stranded on a chilly morning.

Keep an eye on your fluids

• Winter windscreen washer fluid stops it freezing up when temperatures drop. Don’t forget to check your coolant too—it keeps your engine from overheating or freezing.

Pack an emergency kit

• No one expects to break down, but it’s best to be ready. A torch, blanket, jump leads, and a first aid kit can make a big difference.

Check your tyres

• Tyres need good grip to handle wet, icy roads. Check the tread depth and pressure regularly, and think about winter tyres if your area gets a lot of snow.

Don’t:

Drive with frosty windows

• Driving with limited visibility is dangerous. Use a proper de-icer and scraper, and avoid using hot water—it can crack the glass.

Forget to clean your lights

• Mud and grime build up quickly in winter. Clean your lights often so you can see—and be seen—on the road.

Skip regular check-ups

• Cold weather can turn minor issues into major problems. Stay ahead by getting your car checked before winter fully kicks in.

Leave your insurance unchecked

• If in the unfortunate event you need to make a claim, make sure you know what your car insurance policy covers.

4. How to maintain electric cars in winter

Electric vehicles (EVs) require slightly different care in cold weather:

Precondition the battery

• Many EVs offer a preconditioning feature that warms the battery before driving, improving efficiency and range.

Plan for reduced range

• Cold weather can reduce an EV’s range by up to 20%. Keep this in mind when planning long journeys.

Charge indoors if possible

• Charging in a garage or covered area can help maintain a stable battery temperature.

5. Staying safe during winter breakdowns

Breaking down in winter can be dangerous due to cold weather and poor visibility. Here’s how to stay safe:

Stay visible

• Use hazard lights and wear a high-visibility jacket if you need to exit your vehicle.

Stay warm

• Keep blankets in the car to stay warm while waiting for assistance.

Know who to call

• Ensure you have your breakdown provider’s number saved on your phone.

By following these winter car care tips, you’ll be better prepared for the colder months ahead