As temperatures drop and winter weather approaches, sparing some time to prepare your vehicle could mean the difference between safe travels and being stranded in the cold.
There are several faults that can occur due to icy weather. One of the most common car faults we see in the winter is a flat car battery and can often be because it’s due to be replaced; the AA have revealed that 24% of callouts in the winter are battery related [1].
Other mechanical and electrical issues can be related to the alternator, with more strain being put on alternators during the winter due to increased electrical demands from heaters, defrosters, headlights, and other systems, the alternator is more at risk of failing [2].
How do I check my car battery?
The colder weather can significantly impact battery performance, making it one of the more common issues drivers can face during the winter months. To avoid being stranded due to a flat battery, start by checking the battery date code to find out its age. If you have an older battery, the use of a trickle charger should be considered especially for vehicles that aren’t frequently in use – you can also follow these two steps to maintain your battery health:
- Keep the car covered: If you have the luxury of owning a garage, then it is worth utilising this space and keeping the car out of the direct cold air.
- Vital checks: Little things like ensuring all of the lights are off before exiting the car, will reduce the chance of a flat battery.
The main reason for batteries failing during the winter is because the cool weather slows down the chemical process within the battery, and therefore reduces its ability to hold its charge.
If you have a fairly new battery and run your car regularly, then you shouldn’t need to worry about keeping it charged. If you are unsure whether or not you do need a car battery, you can read our handy guide ‘How often should I replace my car battery?’, for help and advice.
It is important to remember that most extended warranties typically do not cover car batteries, as batteries are considered consumable items with a limited lifespan. When a car is serviced, checking the battery is often included as part of the routine maintenance. Keeping your car serviced according to the manufacturers schedule is a great way to keep your car in tip top condition over winter.
How can I protect myself against winter car faults?
Whilst you can’t plan for every eventuality, you can be more aware of the types of faults that can occur more frequently in winter. Here are some you may want to be aware of:
- Alternator failures: To help prevent alternator issues, avoid using multiple high-draw electrical accessories simultaneously when unnecessary, especially in cold weather.
- Starter motor problems: When starting your car in cold weather, turn off unnecessary electrical loads like the radio and heater until the engine is running to reduce strain on the starter motor.
- Heater core failures: Regularly check and maintain proper coolant levels and quality to help prevent heater core issues.
With increased electrical demands during winter on components like the alternator – adding a level of financial protection can bring peace of mind. Thinking about protection options? Winter is a great time to ensure you’re protected with an extended warranty.
How do I prepare my tyres for the winter?
Did you know the legal minimum tyre tread depth for cars in the UK is 1.6 millimetres?
Correct tyre condition is important for maintaining traction on slippery winter roads. You should begin by checking that your tyre tread depth meets the legal minimum of 1.6mm across the central three-quarters of the tread width. A quick and effective way to assess tread depth is by using the 20p coin test.
If you plan on driving through snowy or icy conditions, consider switching to winter tyres for improved grip. Regularly checking tyre pressure is also essential, as it can decrease in cold temperatures.
As road accidents in the winter are quite common due to the road conditions, it is wise to ensure you and your vehicle are protected. In the unfortunate event, you were to be in an accident, it is important that you have roadside assistance as part of your car warranty.
Visibility essentials
Having clear visibility is crucial for safe journeys in the winter. Ensure to top up your windscreen washer fluid with a winter-grade solution that contains anti-freeze to prevent freezing. Inspect your wiper blades and replace them if they show signs of wear or damage. Keeping an ice scraper and de-icer in your car will help you maintain clear windows, mirrors, and lights before you set off.
How do I check fluid levels?
Proper fluid levels are essential for preventing breakdowns and ensuring smooth operation throughout winter. Start by checking and topping up your engine coolant or anti-freeze to avoid freezing issues. Verify that oil levels are adequate and consider switching to winter-grade oil if necessary. Don’t forget to check brake fluid levels as well, maintaining these fluids will help ensure your vehicle operates efficiently.
Quite often the roads are gritted in winter resulting in your car windscreen being covered in a layer of grit. If the temperature drops and your windscreen wash freezes, you may not be able to see whilst you are driving, and for this reason, your windscreen washer is topped up with a fluid that will not freeze such as windscreen wash with anti-freeze.
Your washer fluid should be checked and topped up by your garage during your annual service, however, it is advised to check the levels before winter. All you need to do is pop open your bonnet and located the tube with the windscreen icon on.
To ensure your local garage is servicing your car the correct way, we have created the ultimate car servicing guide.
What should I have in an emergency breakdown kit?
There are certain items that you can keep in the car to make life a little easier if you get stuck. We recommend your winter driving emergency kit includes at least the following:
- Warm clothing or a blanket
- De-icer
- Ice scraper
- Warning triangle
- Hi-vis jacket
- First aid kit
- Torch
- Jump leads
- Shovel
- Emergency food (like high-energy cereal bars)
- Phone charger or charge pack
- A map or updated sat nav/latest version of Google maps
A car warranty you can rely on for winter and beyond
Your car warranty can be tailored to meet your requirements, so you can relax this winter knowing that your car is protected (subject to your plan terms and conditions). Don’t wait until the first snowfall to prepare your vehicle, schedule a winter maintenance check with your trusted mechanic to ensure your car is ready for the cold months ahead!