How to Reduce the Chances of Breaking Down in Cold Weather
Winter is a tough season for cars. As temperatures drop, batteries weaken, engine oil thickens, fluids can freeze, tyre pressures fall, and worn components are more likely to fail. All of this raises your chances of winter breakdowns, particularly in cold starts.
The good news? Most winter breakdowns are easy to prevent. We have outlined the most effective winter car maintenance tips to help you reduce the chance of a breakdown, stay safe, and keep your car running smoothly in freezing conditions.
Why Cars Break Down More Often in Cold Weather
Cold weather can cause a range of mechanical and electrical failures. Understanding these risks help you stay ahead of potential issues:
- Reduced Battery Power- Batteries can loose 50% of their performance in winter.
- Thickened Engine Oil- Forcing your engine to work harder.
- Frozen Screen wash/ Stuck Wipers- Summer screen wash can freeze, damaging the washer pump/ wiper mechanism.
- Low Tyre Pressure- Tyres can lose 1-2 psi, affecting grip, braking, and fuel economy.
- Brittle Rubber Components- Belts stiffen in winter, making cracks more likely.
- Diesel Waxing or Fuel-Line Freezing- Diesel can gel and block filters- common in older/ poorly maintained vehicles.
- These early checks and preventative maintenance is essential for keeping your car running.
Check and Protect Your Battery Before Temperatures Drop
To avoid the dreaded moment when you turn the key and.. nothing happens, try the following:
Test the Voltage: Healthy batteries read 12.6 volts, below 12.4V is weakening.
Replace Older Batteries: Replacement is often cheaper than an emergency breakdown.
Watch for Warning Signs: Slow cranking, dim headlights, electrical glitches, or clicking.
Clean the Terminals: Corrosion restricts power flow- clean/ get them cleaned.
Use a Trickle Charger: Ideal for cars used infrequently.
Ensure Your Coolant and Fluids are Winter Ready
Keeping fluids in good condition is key to avoid winter breakdowns:
Check Antifreeze Strength: A 50:50 coolant mix protects the engine from freezing/ overheating.
Inspect Coolant: Low, discoloured or sludgy coolant can mean a leak.
Use Winter Screen wash: Stops jets freezing, melts ice faster.
Choose Correct Winter Oil: Lower-viscosity oils (0W-30) flow easier in the cold.
Check Brake & Steering Fluids: Low/ dirty levels reduce performance.
Book a Full Car Service with MotorEasy- we ensure all winter fluids are at the correct levels.
Tyre Pressure, Tread and Winter Grip Checks
Proper tyre care is vital for grip, braking and avoiding winter blowouts.
Check Tyre Pressure Weekly: Cold weather lowers pressure.
Keep Tread Above 3mm: Better tread means safer grip on wet, icy or snowy roads.
Inspect for Damage: Sidewall cracks, bulges, flat spots, embedded objects.
Consider Winter Tyres: Ideal for high- risk/ rural driving, offering better traction.
For that extra piece of mind, MotorEasy Tyre Insurance covers punctures and damage.
Protect Your Engine and Mechanical Components
Cold temperatures put extra strain on worn parts- a quick check helps prevent winter failures:
- Inspect Belts: Cold makes rubber brittle- squealing, fraying, or cracking indicate a belt may snap.
- Check Hoses: Look for leaks or soft spots.
- Check Coolant Odours: A sweet smell indicates a coolant leak. Address it before temperatures drop.
- Replace Worn Spark Plugs: Old plugs increase misfires and make cold starts harder, especially on petrol engines.
Winter-Proof Your Visibility Systems
Winter weather reduces visibility, run these quick checks:
- Replace Worn Wipers: Old/ streaky blades won’t clear snow or ice effectively. Replace yearly.
- Clear washer jets: If frozen, use warm (not hot) water and winter-grade screen wash to prevent re-freezing.
- Test Heating & Ventilation- Heaters and demisters keep screens clear.
- Check All Lights- Ensure headlights, fog lights, indicators, and brake lights work- crucial on dark roads.
Prepare a Winter Emergency Kit to Avoid Being Stranded
Even with good preparation, breakdowns can still happen. A simple emergency kit can keep you safe until help arrives.
Essentials:
Ice scraper & de-icer, torch, jump leads, blanket, gloves/ layers, power bank and a high-visibility jacket.
These low-cost items are invaluable in an emergency.
For extra peace of mind, consider MotorEasy Breakdown Cover, which includes roadside rescue and recovery. Get a Breakdown Quote today.
FAQs About Preventing Car Breakdowns in Cold Weather
Why won’t my car start in cold weather?
- Cold weather reduces battery performance, thickens oil, and stresses starter motors. Most non-start issues are battery-related.
How can I stop my battery dying in winter?
- Test voltage, clean terminals, use a trickle charger, and replace batteries older than 4–5 years.
How often should I check tyre pressure in winter?
- Check weekly, as cold temperatures cause natural pressure to drop.
What is the best oil for winter driving in the UK?
- A low-viscosity oil like 0W-30 flows better during cold starts and reduces engine wear. The oil recommended for your vehicle will be in your logbook.
Can fuel freeze in UK temperatures?
- Petrol rarely freezes, but diesel can thicken (“wax”) in very low temperatures, especially in older vehicles.
How do I prepare my car for extreme cold?
- Full battery check
- Correct antifreeze mix
- Winter tyres
- Wiper and fluid checks
- Emergency kit
- Use winter-grade oil
