Seasonal Checks (Winter & Summer)

• Coolant/antifreeze: ensure correct level and mixture. Many cars use around a 50/50 mix; use the spec suitable for your engine. Check hoses and radiator for leaks.
• Screenwash: use a winter-grade concentrate mixed to the stated freeze protection (avoid plain water; it freezes and can split reservoirs/lines).
• Battery: cold reduces cranking power. If starts are slow or the battery is 3–5 years old, get it tested.
• Tyres: the UK legal minimum tread depth is 1.6 mm across the central three-quarters around the whole circumference. More tread (e.g., 3 mm) improves winter grip.
• Pressures: check when tyres are cold. Low temps drop pressures — top up to the vehicle’s stated figures.
• Wipers & visibility: replace worn blades; keep glass clean inside/out to minimise misting and glare.
• Lights: confirm all exterior lights work; winter days are shorter.
• Emergency kit: de-icer, scraper, gloves, torch, blanket, phone charger, warning triangle.
• Diesel DPF: mix in regular longer drives where safe to allow regeneration; frequent short trips can cause issues.
• Fuel level: avoid running very low in freezing conditions.

• Cooling system: check coolant level when cold; inspect radiator fins for debris and ensure fans operate.
• Air conditioning: weak cooling can indicate low refrigerant, blocked cabin filter, or fan issues.
• Pollen/cabin filter: a clogged filter reduces airflow and increases window misting and odours.
• Engine oil: hot weather and heavy loads (towing/holiday trips) stress oil — keep at the correct level.
• Tyres: heat raises pressure; set pressures to the vehicle’s figures and check the spare/repair kit expiry.
• Wipers & washers: summer sun hardens rubber — replace if they smear or squeak.
• Brakes: long descents with loads can cause fade — ensure pads/discs/ fluid are in good condition.
• Sun glare: clean the inside of the windscreen; haze worsens glare at dawn/dusk.

• Tread depth: legal minimum is 1.6 mm as noted; more tread gives better wet and winter performance.
• Wear pattern: centre wear = overinflation; edges = underinflation; one side = alignment/suspension.
• TPMS: if the light comes on, check and adjust pressures, then follow the reset procedure for your vehicle.
• Seasonal tyres: winter or all-season tyres improve cold/wet grip; swap sets in good time if used.
• Puncture kit/spare: check kit expiry, compressor works, and spare is inflated and safe.

• Engine oil: keep between MIN and MAX; top with the correct spec only.
• Coolant: correct level and type; never open hot. Look for leaks and hose bulges.
• Brake fluid: typically renewed about every 2 years; dark or contaminated fluid can cause a spongy pedal.
• Screenwash: winter vs summer dilution as required.
• Power steering/ATF (if fitted): check levels/condition as specified by the vehicle.
• AdBlue/DEF (diesel SCR): top up before long trips; low levels can limit restart.

• Winter: short trips drain batteries — consider periodic longer runs or a maintenance charger if the vehicle is seldom used.
• Summer: heat accelerates ageing; keep terminals clean/tight and avoid leaving the car with loads running.
• Charging voltage: typical running voltage is around 13.8–14.8V depending on system.
• Connections: clean any corrosion; ensure a solid earth to the chassis/engine.

• Oil, coolant, screenwash levels correct
• Tyre pressures set (including spare) and good tread
• All lights working
• Wipers in good condition and clean glass
• Warning lights off; no unusual noises
• Breakdown items: triangle, hi-viz, phone charger, basic tools

• Keep the battery charged (smart maintainer) and start/run the car periodically if appropriate.
• Inflate tyres to recommended pressures; move the vehicle occasionally to avoid flat spots.
• Top the tank to reduce condensation; ventilate the interior occasionally.
• Avoid leaving the handbrake on for very long periods; use chocks if needed.

While the legal minimum is 1.6 mm, many drivers aim for around 3 mm in winter for better water and slush clearance.

Mix to the product’s stated protection (e.g., down to −15 °C or lower) and avoid plain water, which freezes and can damage the system.

Yes. Running A/C periodically helps keep seals lubricated and dries the air for quicker demisting.

Yes. Air contracts as temperatures fall. Check and adjust pressures when tyres are cold to the vehicle’s figures.