As the temperature drops, now is the perfect time to get ahead on your winter vehicle checks, winter car maintenance and smarter winter driving habits. At Taylor’s Service Centre, our mission is simple: to help you stay safe, reliable and worry-free throughout the colder months.
Why Winter Matters for Your Car
Winter driving can put stress on your vehicle: low temperatures, ice, shorter daylight hours, and occasional heavy rain or snow. Without a little preparation, you may face breakdowns, poor visibility and performance. That’s why by focusing on the right maintenance and checks, you protect yourself, your passengers and your vehicle.
The essential pre-winter checklist:
1. Tyres & tread
- Check tyre tread depth: in winter conditions, you’ll need good grip more than ever.
- Ensure tyre pressures are correct (cold tyres will show lower pressure).
- If you frequently drive on icy or snowy roads, consider winter-rated tyres or all-season tyres with good reviews.
2. Battery health
Cold weather reduces battery capacity. As many garages (including us at Taylor’s) see more breakdowns from “dead” batteries in winter, it’s wise to test battery condition now. Replace if it’s weak, to avoid getting stranded.
3. Lights & visibility
- Shorter days = more driving in dusk or darkness.
- Check all exterior lights (headlights, rear lights, fog lights, indicators) are working and clean.
- Ensure windscreen wipers are in good condition and replace worn blades.
- Top up screen-wash with an anti-freeze or winter-grade fluid to tackle icy windshields.
4. Fluids & antifreeze
- Check coolant/antifreeze: the right level and mix will protect your engine in freezing temperatures.
- Oil: if your vehicle’s handbook recommends a winter or lower viscosity oil, get that changed.
- Brake fluid, power-steering fluid and other factory-specified fluids should be at correct levels and in good condition.
5. Heating, defrost and demist
Make sure your heating system and demisters work efficiently. A clear windscreen and side windows are crucial for safe winter driving and for absorbing condensation quickly.
6. Brakes & suspension
Check the condition of your brakes, pads, discs, fluid, and suspension components. Winter roads may be rough, so good braking and handling are vital.
7. Emergency kit
In winter, you’ll want a little extra help, just in case, left in your car:
- Ice scraper and de-icer
- Warm blanket or extra layers
- Torch (with fresh batteries)
- First-aid kit
- High-visibility vest and warning triangle
- Some snacks and water in case you get stuck
Smart Winter Driving Habits
Performing winter vehicle checks and winter car maintenance is half of the story. The other half lies in how you drive:
- Slow down: icy or wet roads require greater stopping distance.
- Increase the following distances: reduces the risk of accidents in slippery conditions.
- Avoid harsh steering/braking: gentle application keeps traction in control.
- Use the correct gears: in manual vehicles, use higher gears in slippery conditions, and avoid 2nd gear starts on ice.
- Be extra cautious at sunrise/sunset: low sun and glare + cold surfaces = danger.
- Plan your route: check weather and road conditions; allow extra travel time.
Why Choose Taylor’s Service Centre for Your Winter Check?
At Taylor’s Service Centre in Great Dunmow, we offer comprehensive winter service packages covering tyres, batteries, fluid levels, brakes, lights, diagnostics and more. Our experienced technicians use genuine equipment and high-quality parts to ensure you’re ready for winter driving. We’re independent, which means we can deliver great value without compromising service.
If you’d like to book a full winter check, just give us a call on 01371 290070 or email info@taylorscentres.co.uk. We’ll get you scheduled in ahead of the worst of the weather.
