06/06/2025
Winter Car Prep Checklist
With colder, wetter weather on the way, it’s important to ensure your car is ready for winter driving. Here's what to check:
✅ 1. Battery Health
Cold mornings can reveal weak batteries.
Have your battery tested — if it’s over three years old, consider replacing it.
✅ 2. Tires
Check tread depth (minimum 1.6 mm; ideally more in wet conditions).
Inspect for cracks or uneven wear.
Keep an eye on tyre pressure, as it drops with colder temperatures.
✅ 3. Windscreen & Wipers
Inspect and replace worn wiper blades.
Use water to test for windscreen leaks — leaks can lead to fogging, mold, and rust. Get your rust repaired as soon as possible to avoid further damage to your vehicle.
Check for chips or cracks and repair before they spread in cold weather.
✅ 4. Rust Check
Look under the car, around the wheel arches, and near seals for early signs of rust.
Pay special attention if your car is often exposed to rain, coastal air, or lives in a humid region.
✅ 5. Heating, Demisting & Defrosting
Make sure the heater and demisters work properly to keep your windows clear.
Test rear window defogger.
✅ 6. Brakes
Have your brakes inspected and serviced if needed — winter rain means longer stopping distances.
✅ 7. Lights
Check headlights, tail lights, indicators, and brake lights.
Clean off dirt and grime for maximum visibility.
✅ 8. Fluids
Top up:
Engine oil
Brake fluid
Coolant (antifreeze)
Windscreen washer fluid (use a winter formula if in a very cold area like the Drakensberg).
✅ 9. Windscreen Washer System
Ensure nozzles are unclogged and washer jets spray correctly.
✅ 10. Emergency Kit (SA Essentials)
Keep in your boot:
Torch (with spare batteries)
Blanket
First-aid kit
Basic tool kit
Reflective triangle
Jumper cables
Tow rope
Power bank or phone charger
Water and non-perishable snacks (if travelling long distances)
🛠 Pro Tip:
Before any long-distance winter travel (e.g., road trips to the Cape or the mountains), book a pre-winter service to catch issues early.
Contact us for a free quotation to attend to those rust issues before they get worse.
