Tips for taking care of your vehicle during winter
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Winter can be one of the toughest times of year for your car. Cold temperatures, wet roads, salt, grit, and reduced daylight all place extra strain on key components — which is why a little extra care during the winter months can make a big difference.
At County Garage, we help customers keep their cars running safely all year round. Here are some simple, practical winter car care tips — including what you can check yourself, and when it’s worth booking in with the professionals.
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Keep an eye on your battery
Cold weather significantly affects battery performance. In winter, batteries work harder and can lose power more quickly — especially if they’re already a few years old.
What you can do:
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If your car struggles to start, don’t ignore it
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Avoid repeated short journeys where the battery doesn’t get time to recharge
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Switch off heated screens, lights, and heaters before starting the engine
When to book in:
If your battery is more than three years old or showing signs of weakness, a battery check during a service can help prevent unexpected breakdowns. -
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Check tyres and tread depth
Your tyres are your only contact with the road, and grip is especially important in wet, icy, or frosty conditions.
What you can do:
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Check tread depth regularly (the legal minimum is 1.6mm, but more is safer in winter)
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Make sure tyre pressures are correct — cold air can lower pressure
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Look for cracks or bulges in the tyre walls
When to book in:
If you’re unsure about tread depth or tyre condition, a professional inspection can give you peace of mind. -
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Make sure lights and wipers are working properly
With darker mornings and evenings, visibility is crucial.
What you can do:
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Check all exterior lights regularly
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Replace worn wiper blades — streaking reduces visibility
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Top up screen wash with a winter-grade solution
These small checks can make a big difference to safety and are easy to overlook.
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Protect your brakes
Road salt and grit can accelerate wear on brake components during winter.
What you can do:
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Listen for unusual noises when braking
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Pay attention to changes in braking feel
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Rinse wheels occasionally to remove built-up salt
When to book in:
Brake inspections are a key part of winter servicing and help ensure safe stopping in poor conditions. -
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Don’t ignore warning lights
Cold weather can expose underlying issues — especially with batteries, sensors, and tyre pressure systems.
What you can do:
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Take dashboard warning lights seriously
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Check your handbook for guidance
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Avoid delaying investigation
A quick diagnostic check can prevent small issues becoming expensive repairs.
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Consider a winter service check
Even if your car feels fine, winter is a smart time for a health check. A professional service looks at the things you can’t easily see — from fluids and brakes to battery health and software updates.
At County Garage, our experienced technicians work across petrol, hybrid, and electric vehicles, using manufacturer-approved procedures to keep your car running at its best.
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Simple winter essentials to keep in your car
A few small items can help you stay prepared:
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De-icer and ice scraper
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Warm gloves and blanket
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Torch
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Screen wash
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Phone charging cable
They’re easy additions but can be invaluable on cold mornings.
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Stay safe, stay prepared this winter
Winter driving doesn’t have to be stressful. With a few regular checks — and the support of a trusted service team when needed — you can enjoy safer, more reliable motoring throughout the colder months.
If you’d like advice, a winter service, or help checking your vehicle, our team is always happy to help — online, by phone, or in person.
