Winter Vehicle Checklist

As we transition into winter 2024, we’ve created a helpful winter vehicle check video and guide to guide you through ensuring your car is safe and road-ready for the colder months. Perfect for those planning long journeys during the festive season, this step-by-step guide will help you keep your vehicle in top condition. Join Dan as he walks you through the following essential checks:

1. CHECK SCREEN WASH LEVELS

Ensuring your screen wash levels are topped up is essential for clear visibility during winter. Grit, salt, and dirt from the roads can quickly accumulate on your windscreen, obstructing your view.

How to check: Open the bonnet and locate the screen wash reservoir, usually marked with a symbol resembling a windscreen and wipers. Remove the cap and ensure the fluid level is near the top. If it’s low, top it up with screen wash mixed to the recommended dilution for freezing temperatures.

2. CHECK ENGINE COOLANT LEVELS

The engine coolant plays a vital role in preventing your engine from overheating and freezing. Make sure the coolant is at the correct level and contains the right mix of antifreeze. A frozen or overheated engine can lead to costly repairs, so check this before the cold really sets in.

How to check: Find the coolant reservoir under the bonnet—this is typically translucent with minimum and maximum markings. When the engine is cool, ensure the coolant level is between these marks.

3. CHECK ENGINE OIL LEVELS

Proper engine oil levels are crucial for keeping your engine running smoothly, especially during cold starts in winter. Low or old oil can lead to increased wear on engine components. Use oil with the correct viscosity grade recommended for winter by your vehicle’s manufacturer.

How to check: Remove the oil dipstick (usually brightly colored), wipe it clean, reinsert it fully, then remove it again to check the oil level. The oil should be between the minimum and maximum markers.

4. CHECK BRAKE FLUID LEVELS

Brake fluid is essential for the safe operation of your vehicle’s braking system. Low levels can reduce braking efficiency, which is especially dangerous on icy or wet roads. Check your brake fluid level and condition, and top up or replace it if necessary.

How to check: Locate the brake fluid reservoir, usually near the back of the engine bay and marked with a warning symbol. Check that the fluid is between the minimum and maximum lines.

5. CHECK TYRE PRESSURES & TREAD

Cold weather can cause tyre pressure to drop, affecting handling and fuel efficiency. Regularly check and adjust tyre pressures to the recommended level. Also, inspect the tread depth—winter roads demand a minimum tread of 3mm for better grip and safety. Consider switching to winter tyres for improved performance in icy or snowy conditions.

How to check: Use a tyre pressure gauge to measure the pressure against the recommended levels found in your vehicle’s manual or on the driver-side door frame. For tread depth, use a tread gauge or the 20p coin test (insert a coin into the tread—if the outer band of the coin is visible, it’s time to replace the tyre).

6. CHECK EXTERIOR BULBS

Shorter daylight hours mean you’ll rely more on your vehicle’s lights. Check all exterior bulbs, including headlights, taillights, indicators, and brake lights, to ensure they are working correctly. Replace any faulty bulbs and clean the lenses for maximum brightness.

How to check: Turn on each set of lights (headlights, indicators, brake lights, etc.) and inspect them from outside the car. For brake lights, ask someone to press the pedal while you check. Replace any faulty bulbs promptly and clean the lenses to ensure maximum visibility. Consult your vehicle manual to find the correct bulb type for replacements.

7. CHECK WIPER BLADES

Worn or damaged wiper blades can leave streaks on your windscreen, impairing visibility. Inspect the wipers for cracks or stiffness and replace them if necessary. Consider winter-specific wipers for better performance against frost and snow.

How to check: Lift the wipers away from the windscreen and inspect the rubber for cracks, stiffness, or uneven wear. Test their performance by spraying the windscreen and running the wipers. Replace wiper blades if they leave streaks or struggle to clear the screen. Winter wipers are designed to handle frost and ice better, so consider upgrading.

Every Car is Different

While these steps apply broadly, vehicles can vary in the location of reservoirs, dipsticks, and other components. Always consult your vehicle’s owner manual for precise details and follow manufacturer recommendations for fluids, parts, and maintenance.