When the temperature drops, our cars often feel it before we do. Cold, wet, and icy conditions can put extra strain on your vehicle, and small issues left unchecked in autumn can quickly become big problems in winter. Preparing your car now can help you stay safe, avoid breakdowns, and keep repair costs down.
Below, we’ve put together a comprehensive checklist of essential car maintenance tips to carry out before the cold weather sets in.
We also have a great guide for summer driving, which you can view here.
1. Check Your Tyres Thoroughly
Tyres are the only part of your car in direct contact with the road, so they need to be in excellent condition during colder months.
-
Tyre pressure: Cold weather causes tyre pressure to drop, so check it regularly and inflate to manufacturer recommendations.
-
Tread depth: The legal minimum is 1.6mm, but we recommend at least 3mm for improved grip in wet, icy, or snowy conditions.
-
Winter tyres: If you drive in areas prone to snow, consider winter tyres for added safety.
2. Test Your Battery Health
Car batteries are one of the most common causes of breakdowns in winter because they struggle in cold temperatures.
-
If your battery is more than three years old, have it tested by a professional.
-
Listen for slow engine cranking, dim lights, or warning lights - all signs your battery may be failing.
-
Carry jump leads or a portable booster pack as a backup.
3. Top Up Antifreeze and Screenwash
Freezing temperatures can cause serious engine damage if your coolant isn’t properly protected.
-
Ensure your engine coolant has the correct mix of antifreeze - usually 50:50 with water.
-
Use winter-grade screenwash to prevent it from freezing and to keep visibility clear.
4. Inspect and Clean Your Lights
With darker mornings and evenings, visibility is crucial.
-
Check all bulbs, including headlights, brake lights, and indicators.
-
Clean lenses regularly - grime and salt from the roads can quickly build up.
-
Replace any faulty bulbs before you really need them.
5. Replace Old or Worn Wiper Blades
Wipers that smear, streak, or squeak won’t do their job properly in rain or snow.
-
Replace wiper blades at least once a year.
-
Top up washer fluid with a winter-grade solution.
-
Keep a de-icer and scraper in your car to deal with frosty mornings.
6. Check and Change Your Oil
Oil keeps your engine running smoothly, but it thickens in cold conditions.
-
Check your oil level regularly and top up if needed.
-
If your service is due, book it in before winter begins.
-
Use the oil grade recommended by your manufacturer - some are better for cold starts.
7. Protect Your Windscreen
Your windscreen is especially vulnerable in cold weather.
-
Chips and cracks can spread quickly in freezing conditions - get them repaired as soon as possible.
-
Keep your washer fluid topped up with antifreeze protection.
-
Never pour boiling water on the glass when de-icing.
8. Stock an Emergency Kit
Even with the best preparation, winter journeys don’t always go as planned. Carry a small kit in your boot:
-
Blanket and warm clothing
-
Torch and spare batteries
-
Ice scraper and de-icer
-
Phone charger and power bank
-
High-visibility vest
-
Non-perishable snacks and water
9. Keep Fuel Levels Higher
Running low on fuel is risky in winter, especially if you hit unexpected delays. Aim to keep your tank at least half full to avoid running out in freezing conditions.
10. Consider If It’s Time to Upgrade
If your current car struggles to start in cold weather, frequently breaks down, or doesn’t feel safe, it may be time to change. Upgrading before winter gives you peace of mind and ensures you’re driving something reliable.
Find out what you could get for your old car by reading our dedicated blog article.
Final Thoughts
Car maintenance in the run-up to winter doesn’t need to be complicated. With a few simple checks and a little preparation, you can keep your car running smoothly and avoid unpleasant surprises. And if your car is no longer fit for purpose, CarGiant makes upgrading simple, with thousands of used cars to choose from and finance options to suit every budget.