When the weather turns icy and the mornings start with frozen windscreens, your car feels it too. The cold puts extra pressure on everything, from your battery to your tyres, and that’s when breakdowns become more common. In fact, the RAC reports that breakdown callouts rise sharply every winter as the temperature drops.
A little preparation now can save you a whole lot of hassle later, so grab your de-icer and let’s get you and your car ready for the chilly months ahead.
Why you need to prepare your car for winter
Winter driving isn’t just colder, it’s trickier, slipperier and a bit more unpredictable. From flat batteries to frozen fuel lines, the cold can throw all sorts of surprises your way.
How winter affects your car
Cold weather drains batteries faster, reduces tyre pressure and thickens vital fluids like oil. Your car simply has to work harder to do the same job. Nevertheless, a few simple checks before winter hits can make all the difference.
Your winter car checklist
When the temperature dips, being prepared is key. Here’s what you should have and check before the next frosty morning.
Emergency breakdown kit
Think of this as your “just in case” bag. Pack a torch, jump cables, blanket, ice scraper, de-icer, and a few snacks and bottles of water. Don’t forget portable phone chargers or power banks.
The RAC also recommends warm clothes, reflective jackets, a warning triangle and even a small shovel if you live somewhere snowy. It might sound old-school, but you’ll be thankful for them if you’re stuck by the roadside on a freezing night.
Fluid checks
Antifreeze, screenwash and oil are the holy trinity of winter fluids. Check them regularly and top up as needed; it’ll keep your engine protected and your view of the road clear.
Make sure your coolant is topped up (do this only when the engine’s cold) and use winter-grade screenwash that won’t freeze below zero.
Tyre checks
Your tyres are your only contact with the road, so they need to be in top condition. Experts recommend at least 3mm of tread depth for a safe grip, and you should also check for cracks or uneven wear.
Cold weather can make tyre pressure drop, so check it often, and if you live somewhere that gets especially icy, winter tyres could be a great investment.
Mechanical and electrical checks
A quick DIY check goes a long way. Make sure your battery is charged, your lights are working, and your wipers are in good condition.
The RAC also suggests checking oil levels (between the min and max on your dipstick) and testing your heater and demister to ensure they’re working properly before the first frost hits.
Before you set off
Clear all snow and ice from your windscreen, mirrors, lights and roof; test your wipers and headlights before setting off.
We strongly recommend that you keep your breakdown cover details somewhere easy to find, on your phone and printed in the glovebox, just in case.
What to do if you break down in winter
Even the best-prepared drivers can get caught out in winter. If your car suddenly gives up on a cold, dark night, don’t panic. Here’s exactly what to do if your car breaks down:
- Stay calm and get off the road if you can: If the car will move, steer it safely off the carriageway (a lay-by, verge or side road). Turn your wheels to the left so the car won’t roll into traffic.
- Turn on your hazard lights and keep passengers safe: Switch hazards on immediately. If visibility is poor or it’s dark, keep sidelights on too. Everyone should get out using the left-hand door and move to a safe place away from traffic, behind the crash barrier if on a motorway or dual carriageway where one’s present. Wear hi-vis clothing if you have it.
- If you can, place a warning triangle: Put a warning triangle about 30-45 metres (~60 paces) behind your car to warn other drivers, unless you’re on a motorway or other high-speed road, where it’s unsafe to do so.
- Call your breakdown provider (or 999 if you’re in immediate danger): Contact your breakdown service for recovery and tell them exactly where you are and what happened. If you cannot reach a safe place or you’re on a live lane and can’t get clear, call 999 first.
Is having breakdown cover over winter worth it?
Winter is when breakdown cover can really earn its keep. Having reliable breakdown cover over the winter can help provide reassurance as it means help is just a call away, no matter how frosty things get.
How to choose the right breakdown cover
When comparing options, look for extras that make winter driving less stressful:
- Roadside assistance: sends help if you break down away from home.
- Home start: handy if your car refuses to start on a freezing morning
- Onward travel: helps you get where you’re going even if your car can’t
- Recovery: ensures your car, passengers and luggage can be taken to a garage or your chosen destination if repairs aren’t possible at the roadside
Choosing the right cover means you can drive confidently, knowing that if the cold catches you out, help won’t be far away. For more details on esure’s Breakdown Assistance and the different levels of cover available, head here.
Ready to tackle winter head-on? Add breakdown cover to your car insurance today to stay protected, whatever the weather throws your way.
Sources:
https://www.rac.co.uk/drive/advice/winter-driving/preparing-your-car-for-winter/
https://www.rac.co.uk/drive/advice/winter-driving/Winter-breakdown-kit-checklist/
https://www.rac.co.uk/drive/advice/know-how/what-to-do-if-your-car-breaks-down/
https://assets.publishing.service.gov.uk/media/65f97642aa9b760011fbda4e/the-highway-code-stopping-distances.pdf
https://www.kwik-fit.com/blog/why-car-batteries-die-in-cold-weather
https://www.halfords.com/tyres/advice/tyre-pressure-in-weather.html
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