Essential Tips to Prepare Vehicles for Winter

Drivers have been urged to prepare their vehicles for winter or risk dangerous journeys in the cold. Motoring experts have revealed six tips for Brits to winter-proof their vans and cars.

Driving through cold temperatures and extreme weather can be challenging, but doing extra preparation will help make travelling safer and easier this winter.

Ensuring the tyres have sufficient tread depth and all the lights are working is an essential winter check.

Motorists should also pack an emergency kit with warm clothes and a torch in case of a breakdown.

Tim Alcock from Lease Van said: “Many drivers forget to prepare their vehicles for winter driving and have to face uncomfortable and dangerous journeys throughout the colder months.

“Vision can be impaired, the roads are slippery and extreme weather can catch out even the most experienced drivers.

“So making sure you have the correct fluid levels in your vehicle, all the lights are fully functioning, and the tyres are at the correct tread depth are all important checks to make.”

Here are Lease Van’s six tips for getting your vehicle ready for winter:

1. Check Your Tyres

Ensure sufficient tread depth on all tyres to ensure your journeys are safe on slippery and icy roads this winter.

Drivers can regularly use a 20p coin to check if the tread is legal. When placed in the tread grooves, the tyres are safe to use if you can’t see the coin’s outer band.

2. Pack an Emergency Kit

In the unfortunate event of a winter breakdown, having some essential items in the boot will help you keep safe and warm while waiting for recovery. Pack warm clothes, a torch, a portable phone charger, water and a snack for emergencies.

3. Check the Lights Are Working

Check that all lights and indicators work on your van or car, and replace unused bulbs. With the shorter days and foggy weather, all lights must fully function.

4. Have Enough Fuel

Especially before taking a long journey or driving in the dark, ensure plenty of fuel is left to avoid breaking down and being stranded in the cold. Always aim to have at least a quarter of the tank full.

5. Don’t Let Your Vision Be Impaired 

Ensure that the windscreen and windows are entirely ice and condensation-free before setting off so you can see the road ahead.

You can use several household items to prevent windows from fogging up – such as shaving foam, and onions can help de-ice your vehicle.

6. Vehicle Fluids Should Be Sufficient

Anti-freeze is one of the most essential fluids to keep regular checks on over the winter to ensure sufficient levels to stop the engine from freezing. Ensuring the windscreen wash and brake fluid are at the correct levels is also essential.

To learn more about getting your van and car ready for winter, head to https://leasecar.uk/van-leasing/.