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Preparing your vehicle for winter
21 Oct 2026
As winter approaches, shorter days, colder temperatures and unpredictable weather can all make driving more challenging. Whether you're commuting to work, running errands or heading off on a weekend getaway, taking a little time to prepare both yourself and your vehicle can make a big difference to your safety and comfort on the road.
So when it comes to your car prep this winter, Matt has three categories for you:
- Looking after yourself - the essentials to keep you comfortable
- Looking after the car - your vehicle's checks and needs
- Your 'just in case' items - for just in case!
1. Looking after yourself
When temperatures drop, being properly prepared isn't just about comfort, it's about safety too. Winter weather can change quickly, and even a short journey could become much longer if you encounter traffic, poor road conditions or vehicle issues.
Keeping a few key items in your car can help you stay warm, visible and connected if you find yourself delayed or stranded.
Winter essentials to keep in your vehicle:
- De-icer and ice scraper
- Warm, waterproof coat
- Gloves and a hat
- Hi-vis jacket
- Torch (preferably with spare batteries)
- Fully charged mobile phone or portable power bank
- Drinking water
- Winter footwear with good grip
Being prepared means you'll be ready for frosty mornings, unexpected delays and anything the British winter decides to throw your way.
2. Looking after the car
Winter conditions can put extra strain on your vehicle, making regular checks more important than ever. A well-maintained car is more reliable, safer to drive and better equipped to cope with cold temperatures, heavy rain and icy conditions.
Before winter sets in, it's worth checking:
- Windscreen wash levels and ensuring you're using a winter-ready screenwash
- Engine oil level and condition
- Coolant and antifreeze levels
- Battery health, as cold weather can affect performance
- Tyre condition and tread depth
- Tyre pressures
- Lights and indicators
- Windscreen wipers for signs of wear
It's also a great time to protect your vehicle from the effects of winter grime, road salt and muddy conditions. Explore Tangelo's Car Care Products to help keep your vehicle looking its best, inside and out, throughout the season.
If you're unsure about any aspect of your vehicle's condition, our team at the Tangelo Auto Centre can provide professional servicing and maintenance to help keep you moving safely all winter long.
3. Your 'just in case' items
No one likes to think about breakdowns or emergencies, but having a few extra items on hand can provide valuable peace of mind when you're out on the road.
These are the items you might rarely need, but you'll be glad they're there if the unexpected happens.
Helpful items to keep in your vehicle:
- Locking wheel nut key
- Towing eye
- Breakdown service contact details
- Emergency contact numbers
- First aid kit
- Jump leads
- Blanket
- Portable phone charger or power bank
- Warning triangle (where appropriate)
- Spare torch
A little preparation now can save a lot of stress later, especially during the colder months when weather conditions can be less predictable.
Stay Safe This Winter
Before setting off on your next winter journey, take a few moments to run through this checklist. Ensuring both you and your vehicle are prepared can help make every trip safer, more comfortable and more enjoyable.
Looking for your next vehicle? Explore our extensive range of used cars. And for all your servicing, maintenance and repair requirements, our expert team is on hand to help keep your vehicle in peak condition whatever the weather.