Use this guide in autumn before the first cold snap, or before a winter journey. You will need your car handbook, screenwash suitable for low temperatures, an ice scraper and de-icer, and items for an emergency kit.
Step by step
Check the battery
Cold weather puts extra strain on batteries, especially older ones. If the engine turns over slowly or the battery is several years old, ask a garage to test it. Turn off lights, heated screens and fans before switching off the engine to reduce the load at start-up.
Check tyres, wipers and screenwash
Check tyre tread and pressures; more tread gives better grip on wet and icy roads. Replace wiper blades that smear or judder. Top up with screenwash rated for low temperatures so it does not freeze.
Check lights and coolant
Make sure all lights work and lenses are clean, as winter means more driving in the dark and fog. Check the coolant level and that it has the correct antifreeze mix, following the handbook. Do not open the coolant cap when the engine is hot.
Pack a winter kit
Keep an ice scraper, de-icer, torch, warm clothes, blanket, sturdy boots, phone charger, water, snacks and a small shovel in the car. Add a first aid kit and a hi-vis vest. Keep at least a quarter of a tank of fuel or a good battery charge in case of delays.
Clear the car fully before driving
Clear all ice and snow from every window, mirror, light and the roof before setting off, not just a small patch on the windscreen. Snow sliding off the roof can block your view or hit other drivers. Never leave the car unattended with the engine running to defrost, as it can be stolen and may invalidate your insurance.
Drive for the conditions
Check the weather and travel news before you go, and ask whether the journey is necessary. Drive slowly, use gentle steering, braking and acceleration, and leave much more space, as stopping distances can be up to ten times longer on ice. Use dipped headlights in poor visibility and fog lights only when visibility is seriously reduced.
Ready-to-use checklist
- Battery tested if old or weak
- Tyres checked for tread and pressure
- Wiper blades and low-temperature screenwash
- Lights working and clean
- Coolant level checked when engine cold
- Winter kit packed in the boot
- Fuel or charge kept topped up
- All windows, lights and roof cleared before setting off
Practical tips
- Pull away in second gear on snow or ice if your car allows it, to reduce wheel spin.
- Tell someone your route and expected arrival time before long winter journeys.
- If your car starts to skid, ease off the accelerator and steer gently in the direction you want to go without braking harshly.
Common problems
The car will not start on a frosty morning.
Turn off all electrical items and try again after a short wait, without cranking for long periods. If the battery is flat, call your breakdown provider or use jump leads safely following the handbook.
The windscreen keeps misting up inside.
Use the air conditioning with the heater on and direct air to the windscreen, as air conditioning dries the air. Keep the inside of the glass clean and avoid leaving wet coats and umbrellas in the car.
I am stuck in snow on a quiet road.
Stay with the car if it is safe, keep warm and call for help. Keep the exhaust clear of snow if you run the engine for heat, and run it only in short bursts with a window slightly open.