Winter can be tough on cars. Colder temperatures, darker journeys and wet or icy roads can make driving more challenging – and put extra strain on your vehicle.
A little preparation can make a big difference. Before winter weather arrives, give your car a few simple checks and make sure you've got the essentials you might need if conditions take a turn.
Check your tyres
Your tyres are your car's only contact with the road, so keeping them in good condition is particularly important when roads are wet or icy.
Check the tread depth across each tyre and look for cuts, cracks or bulges. The legal minimum tread depth for cars in the UK is 1.6mm, but having more tread can help your tyres perform better in challenging conditions.
Don't forget to check your tyre pressures too, using the recommended pressures for your vehicle.
Give your battery some attention
Cold weather can expose weaknesses in a car battery, while winter also means we're more likely to use electrical equipment such as lights, heaters and heated screens.
If your car is struggling to start, the engine is turning over more slowly than usual or you know the battery is getting old, it could be worth having it checked before temperatures fall.
If you drive an electric car, colder weather can also reduce your available range, so factor this into longer winter journeys and plan charging stops in advance.
Check your lights and visibility
Shorter days mean more driving in the dark, so check that your headlights, brake lights, indicators and fog lights are all working properly. Clean your lights regularly too, as winter road dirt can quickly reduce their effectiveness.
Good visibility from inside the car is just as important. Check your windscreen wipers for signs of wear and keep your screenwash topped up with a suitable winter concentration.
It's also worth keeping an ice scraper and de-icer in the car, so you're ready for frosty mornings.
Check your fluids
Open the bonnet and make sure your car's essential fluids are at the right levels, including engine oil and coolant.
Coolant contains antifreeze to help protect your engine when temperatures drop. If you're unsure about the correct specification or concentration for your vehicle, check your handbook.
Give your car a little extra care
Winter is a good time to make sure everything underneath the bonnet – and under the car – is working as it should.
If your car is due a service, getting it booked in before winter can help identify potential problems before colder weather puts additional strain on your vehicle.
Your brakes deserve particular attention. Wet, icy and slippery roads can increase stopping distances, so if you've noticed unusual noises, vibrations or changes in how your brakes feel, don't ignore them.
AA members can take advantage of AA Car Care offers on servicing, brakes and vehicle health checks, helping you get your car checked and ready for the months ahead.
Pack a winter driving kit
Even a well-maintained car can be caught out by severe weather or unexpected delays.
Rather than carrying everything but the kitchen sink, focus on a few useful essentials:
- ice scraper and de-icer
- warm clothing, waterproofs and sturdy footwear
- torch
- fully charged mobile phone and in-car charger or power pack
- first aid kit
- water and non-perishable snacks
- hi-vis jacket.
If severe weather is forecast, check the weather and traffic conditions before setting off. And if conditions could make driving dangerous, consider whether your journey is really necessary.
The AA app can also help you plan your route, check traffic and report a breakdown if you need us.
If you're involved in an accident, we're here to help
Even with careful preparation, accidents can happen – particularly when winter brings slippery roads and poor visibility.
If you're involved in an accident, AA Accident Assist can help take some of the stress out of what happens next. It's not designed as a replacement for motor insurance, but instead to support you, your car and your claim, helping with the process from paperwork through to repairs.
That means there's one less thing to worry about at a time when you might understandably feel shaken or unsure what to do next.
Ready for winter
A few simple checks now could make a big difference later. Check your tyres, battery, lights and fluids, consider a service or vehicle health check and pack a few winter essentials.
Then, whether you're heading to work on a frosty morning or setting off on a longer winter journey, you and your car will be better prepared for the road ahead.
Published: 15 September 2016 | Updated: 5 October 2026 | Author: The AA
