There’s nothing worse than heading out on a cold winter morning, only to find your car won’t start or something’s not working as it should. Whether you’re learning to drive or you’ve just passed your test, knowing how to look after your vehicle in the colder months can save you from serious inconvenience — and potentially dangerous situations on the road.

At Surrey Driving Force, we believe that safe driving starts well before you put the key in the ignition. That’s why we teach our pupils not just how to drive, but how to take care of their car too — especially in winter, when low temperatures and harsh weather take their toll.

This blog walks you through the essential winter car checks every driver should know, with simple, practical advice to help keep your car running smoothly and safely throughout the season.

Why Winter Affects Your Vehicle

Cars work harder in winter. Cold weather thickens engine oil, drains battery power, reduces tyre grip, and can affect everything from your windscreen wipers to your lights. If your vehicle isn’t properly maintained, small issues can quickly turn into big problems.

Being proactive with your car care doesn’t require mechanical knowledge — just a few regular checks and a bit of common sense. Here’s how to get started.

1. Check Your Battery

Car batteries are one of the most common causes of winter breakdowns in the UK. Cold temperatures reduce a battery’s efficiency, while heaters, lights and blowers all put extra strain on it.

Signs your battery might be struggling include:

  • The engine is slow to turn over

  • Electrical systems are weaker or dimmer than usual

  • You hear a clicking sound when you try to start the car

To avoid problems:

  • Start your car regularly, especially if you’re not using it every day

  • Switch off lights, heaters and demisters before turning off the engine

  • Have your battery tested at a garage if it’s over three years old or showing signs of weakness

If you’re a learner driver, your instructor will ensure the lesson car is ready — but when it comes to driving your own vehicle, this is a top priority.

2. Keep an Eye on Tyres

Tyres are your car’s only contact with the road, so they need to be in excellent condition for winter driving. In icy or wet conditions, tyre grip can make the difference between safe stopping and sliding.

Check the following:

  • Tread depth – the legal minimum is 1.6mm, but in winter, at least 3mm is recommended for better grip

  • Tyre pressure – cold weather causes pressure to drop, so check it regularly and top up as needed

  • Signs of wear – look for cracks, bulges or uneven wear that could affect handling

If you’re unsure how to check your tyres properly, ask your instructor during a lesson — it’s an essential skill for all drivers.

3. Top Up Fluids and Use Winter-Grade Washer Fluid

Winter means more rain, salt, and grime on the roads, which makes visibility a constant issue. It’s vital to keep your windscreen washer fluid topped up — and ensure it contains anti-freeze to prevent freezing on colder days.

Other fluids to check include:

  • Engine coolant – make sure it’s at the correct level and mixed with antifreeze

  • Oil – cold weather thickens oil, so check the level and top up if necessary

  • Brake fluid – this should always be within the recommended range

Your car’s handbook will guide you through these checks, or you can ask a local garage to take a quick look.

4. Inspect Lights and Wipers

Visibility is critical in winter. Fog, heavy rain, and dark afternoons all reduce how much you can see — and how well others can see you.

Make sure:

  • All lights (headlights, brake lights, indicators, and fog lights) are working properly

  • Lights and lenses are clean and free from salt or grime

  • Windscreen wipers are not cracked or worn — replace them if they leave streaks

Carry spare bulbs in your car if you can. You’ll also want a good ice scraper and de-icer spray on hand, as well as a clean cloth for wiping inside windows.

5. Prepare for Emergencies

Even with the best preparation, breakdowns can still happen — especially in extreme cold. That’s why it’s a good idea to keep a winter emergency kit in your car. It doesn’t need to be expensive or bulky, just a few essentials to help keep you safe and comfortable while you wait for help.

Your kit might include:

  • Ice scraper and de-icer

  • Torch and spare batteries

  • Warm blanket, hat and gloves

  • High-vis jacket

  • Jump leads

  • Phone charger or power bank

  • Bottled water and a snack

  • Warning triangle

This is especially important if you’re driving in rural areas or on longer journeys where help may take longer to arrive.

A Note for Learner Drivers

If you’re currently learning to drive with Surrey Driving Force, your instructor will handle all the car maintenance — but it’s still valuable to understand how and why these checks matter.

When you pass your test and begin driving independently, knowing how to look after your car in winter can save you time, money, and potentially keep you out of danger.

We regularly incorporate practical winter driving advice into our lessons, so feel free to ask your instructor to show you how to carry out basic checks. Building good habits now will serve you well for years to come.

Final Thoughts

Winter driving can be a challenge — but with a little preparation, it doesn’t have to be a nightmare. By performing a few quick checks on your battery, tyres, fluids, lights and wipers, you can avoid the most common causes of cold-weather breakdowns and drive with confidence.

At Surrey Driving Force, we’re here to support you not just through your driving test, but with the skills that make you a safe and responsible driver for life.

To book your winter driving lessons or ask us a question, head to www.surreydrivingforce.co.uk/contact-us

Stay safe, stay warm, and keep your car winter-ready.