Winter Vehicle Health Check

1. Low Tyre Pressure

Cold weather can cause your tyre pressure to drop, as the air inside the tyres contracts in low temperatures. Aside from being an inconvenience, this can also lead to reduced fuel efficiency, uneven tyre wear, and less grip on icy roads, making driving more dangerous.

Most modern cars have a Tyre Pressure Monitoring System (TPMS) that alerts you when your tyre pressure is low, so you’ll need to keep an eye on it during winter. You should also check your tyre pressure regularly and inflate your tyres to the manufacturer’s recommended levels when necessary.

With properly inflated tyres, you’ll be able to handle your vehicle better, giving you a safer and smoother driving experience.

2. Brakes Feel Different in Winter

The brakes are the most important safety feature of any vehicle, and the grip can be at its lowest in winter, so it is important to keep an eye on wear rates.

Unusual grumbling noises, a car pulling to one side or a ‘long’ spongy brake pedal could point towards a problem with the braking system. Bring your vehicle to us and have them checked to avoid any problems.

3. Spark Plug Failure

Your car’s spark plugs are essential for starting the engine. If they fail, you might struggle to start your vehicle or not be able to start it at all.

Lower temperatures can cause spark plugs to wear out faster, especially if they’re already old or damaged. The signs of a failing spark plug include rough idling, reduced fuel efficiency, and difficulty starting your car.

To prevent being caught out by failing spark plugs, regularly check them or bring your vehicle to us and we will check them and replace if needed.

With regular maintenance, you can ensure your engine starts smoothly, even on the coldest mornings, reducing the likelihood of frustrating breakdowns.

4. Faulty Windscreen Wipers

Winter can often cause your windscreen wipers to malfunction when you need them most. Ice, snow, and freezing temperatures can crack wiper blades or make them stick to the glass.

Worn-out wipers may struggle to clear your windscreen properly, making it difficult to see the road ahead while you’re driving. To prevent this, you should check your wipers before winter and replace them if they’re worn.

You can also use a winter-grade washer fluid that won’t freeze. Never force wipers that are stuck in ice; instead, make sure to defrost the windscreen first.

Keeping your wipers working effectively means you’ll have a clearer view of the roads and can drive safely during winter.

5. Freezing Fluids

Freezing temperatures can cause the fluids in your car, like coolant and engine oil,and windshield washer fluid, to thicken or freeze, which is another common winter car problem.

When these fluids don’t flow properly, they can strain your engine and affect your car’s performance, potentially causing damage. For example, frozen washer fluid makes it harder to clean your windshield, reducing your visibility while driving.

To avoid these issues, you’ll need to use winter-grade fluids designed to withstand colder temperatures. You can also check your car’s antifreeze levels and make sure your windshield washer fluid is rated for sub-zero conditions.

Alternatively, you can conveniently bring your vehicle to us and we will check and top up all your engine fluids.