Winter Car Check & Maintenance Guide for Safer Seasonal Driving

Winter driving can be unpredictable, but a little preparation goes a long way in keeping you safe on the road. Icy windshields, slippery roads and dark evenings are just a few of the challenges that come with colder months. Without proper care, your car might struggle with the changing conditions, leaving you frustrated or even stranded.

With our easy-to-follow Autumn through Winter car check guide, you’ll have everything you need to prepare your vehicle for the season ahead. Whether you're tackling frosty mornings or planning a winter getaway, these tips will have you ready for whatever the weather throws your way.

Car winterisation checklist

While colder months bring unique challenges for your car, getting it winter-ready doesn’t have to be complicated. Below, we’ve outlined a simple checklist of key cold-weather car checks to help you drive confidently through the season.

Check and change your oil

Colder weather can put your engine to the test, especially if you’re running on old or dirty oil. When temperatures drop, oil can thicken, making it more difficult for your engine to operate efficiently. A quick oil and filter change is a simple way to keep your engine running smoothly and protected, even on frosty mornings.

Because it’s hidden away under the bonnet, it’s easy to forget about your car’s oil, but it plays a vital role. Clean, high-quality oil doesn’t just keep things moving; it cools, protects and lubricates key engine parts.

Book your oil and filter service at HiQ to help your car perform at its best and last longer.

Test your brakes

Autumn and winter present unique hazards, with wet roads, slippery leaves and icy patches making it harder to stop safely. Responsive brakes reduce stopping distances and help you maintain control during unpredictable conditions. Ensuring your brakes are in top condition enables you to prioritise safety for yourself and others on the road.

Visit your local HiQ centre for expert brake checks and servicing so you can drive with peace of mind throughout the colder months.

Inspect headlights and wipers

Good visibility is non-negotiable during autumn and winter. Dim headlights or worn wipers can make it difficult to see clearly in rain, fog or darkness.

Take a moment to inspect your headlights and replace any bulbs that are dim or no longer working. Give your wiper blades a check too - if they’re leaving streaks, making noise or struggling to clear your windscreen, it’s time for an upgrade. These small fixes can make a big difference in keeping your view of the road crystal clear.

Need help? Visit your local HiQ for fast and reliable headlight or wiper blade checks and replacements.

Check your battery health

Does cold weather affect car battery performance? Yes, it can reduce efficiency and increase the risk of failure. A common winter issue is your car not starting in cold weather, often due to battery failure or thickened oil. The last thing you want is a frosty-morning false start when you’re in a rush.

Make battery testing a key part of your winter maintenance routine. If your battery is more than three years old, it might be time to consider a replacement. And don’t forget to keep a set of jump leads in your car, just in case you need them in an emergency.

Book a battery check at HiQ. Our experts offer quick battery tests, replacements and eco-friendly disposal, so you can stay on the road worry-free!

Examine your tyres

Your tyres are essential for staying safe on wet, icy winter roads. Regularly check the tread depth to ensure it meets the legal minimum of 1.6mm. Does car tyre pressure go down in cold weather? Yes, it typically decreases by about 1 psi for every 10°C drop. Under-inflated tyres not only reduce fuel efficiency but can also affect your car’s handling and safety, especially in challenging conditions.

If you live in an area prone to harsh winters, switching to winter or all-season tyres could make a real difference as they are designed to give you better grip and stability, even in icy or snowy weather.

HiQ offers expert tyre checks and services with trusted brands to keep you safe and confident on the road.

Steering and suspension

Safe handling is crucial when navigating slippery or uneven roads in the autumn and winter. Regular inspections are an important part of autumn driving safety tips, ensuring these systems are in top condition so you can drive carefully, even in challenging weather conditions.

Stay safe this autumn and winter by scheduling a steering and suspension check at HiQ. Our experts are available to ensure your car's performance is ready for the colder months.

Bonus tips for safer winter driving

Beyond routine winter car checks, there are steps you can take to stay safe during winter journeys. Here are some essential cold-weather car maintenance and driving tips to keep in mind:

Keep an emergency kit in your boot

Getting stranded in cold weather is never ideal, but having an emergency kit on hand can make all the difference. Pack essentials like a torch, spare batteries, jump leads, a warm blanket, a phone charger, bottled water, snacks and a first-aid kit. It’s a simple way to be prepared for unexpected delays and ensure you’re ready for anything.

Use de-icer and winter-grade screen wash

Avoid frozen windshields by using de-icer and winter-grade screen wash tailored for frosty conditions. Pair these with an ice scraper to maintain a clear view on frosty mornings. These products are designed to perform in colder temperatures, so your view remains clear.

By addressing common winter car issues and following these practical tips, you can enjoy safer journeys through the colder months. Staying on top of maintenance and being prepared for whatever the autumn and winter bring will help keep both you and your car safe on the road.

Trust our expert local garages to help you stay road-ready this season. From routine check-ups and brake repairs to wheel alignments and full services, our specialists are here to keep your vehicle roadworthy and ready for autumn and winter driving.