Winter Car Checklist: 8 Things to Sort Before the Cold Hits

Cold weather is the toughest test your car faces all year. Batteries lose up to a third of their power below freezing, rubber hardens, and small faults that were harmless in July become breakdowns in January.

Start with the battery: if yours is over four years old and the car cranks slowly on cold mornings, get it tested — most garages (including us) test them free. Next, tyres: check tread depth with a 20p coin; if the outer band is visible, you're near the 1.6mm legal limit and well past the point of good winter grip.

Top up coolant with the right antifreeze mix, check your screenwash is rated to at least -10°C, and replace wiper blades that smear. Finally, keep the tank above a quarter full — condensation in a near-empty tank causes fuel system issues in freezing weather.

Want it all done in one visit? A full service covers every item on this list, with a written report of anything that needs attention.