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News and advice · 29 September 2026

Keeping your vehicle well maintained is important all year round, but doubly so in winter. Cold mornings, wet roads and salty air off the Fylde Coast all take their toll. Here is what to check before the weather turns.

Battery

Cold weather is hard on batteries. If your car has been slow to start, or the battery is more than four or five years old, get it checked before it lets you down on a frosty morning.

Tyres

The legal minimum is 1.6mm, but grip drops off well before that, especially in the wet. Many motoring organisations recommend at least 3mm for winter. Check pressures regularly too, as they drop in the cold.

Lights

With shorter days you will be driving in the dark more. Walk around the car and check every bulb, and give the lenses a clean.

Screenwash and wipers

Use a proper screenwash that will not freeze, and replace blades that smear. Never use hot water to clear a frozen windscreen, as it can crack the glass.

Antifreeze

Check the coolant level and make sure the mix is right for freezing temperatures.

Keep a winter kit in the boot

• Ice scraper and de-icer
• Torch and spare batteries
• Blanket, warm clothes and boots
• Phone charger
• Water and snacks
• Jump leads

MOT due over winter? Many of these checks are part of the MOT. Book in with Greenwood for an honest test from an MOT-only centre, and we will tell you straight if anything needs attention.

Book your MOT or read our pre-MOT checklist.