How Cold Weather Affects Your Car’s Performance - and What You Can Do About It

As temperatures drop and roads turn frosty, making sure your vehicle is ready for winter is more important than ever.

Whether you’re commuting to work, heading out on the school run or navigating rural roads, preparing now can save you time, money and stress later.

Firstly, tyres are one of the most important factors in winter. Cold weather reduces pressure, resulting in decreased grip and handling, increased braking distance, which can be dangerous in already icy conditions, higher fuel consumption and an increased risk of a blowout. However, when inflated too much, traction is also reduced, again increasing the risk of losing control in icy or wet conditions. Additionally, tyre tread depth is just as important. When tread depth is reduced, the tyre struggles to maintain contact with the ground, which could result in aquaplaning/a loss of traction. The legal minimum for tread is 1.6mm, but the recommended minimum is at least 3mm. Make sure to regularly check your pressure, tread depth and overall condition of the tyre regularly, or for the best control, consider winter/all-season tyres. You can also book in with us for a tyre check or replacement.

Another important aspect is the battery. As the temperature falls, the battery’s internal chemical activity slows down, reducing its ability to deliver current. A battery may reduce up to 35% of its power at 0 degrees Celsius, and potentially more at below freezing. Additionally, we use more electrical systems during the winter, whether it's heated seats/steering wheel, headlights and fog lights, heaters, heated windscreen and more, which all put more strain on the battery. The alternator also needs more time to recharge the battery in these conditions, and if you aren’t going for longer drives, the battery might not fully recharge. Signs of a failing battery include the engine taking longer to start, headlights dimming at idle, a battery warning light on the dashboard. If you are unsure about any of the above or would benefit from a check or advice, please do get in touch.

Overall, there are many aspects that can affect your vehicle's performance in the colder weather, from tyres to the battery to fluids such as antifreeze or coolant. Contact us regarding any of these issues or to book in for a winter health check for your peace of mind on 01205 722110 for Duckworth Land Rover, Boston, 01205 725700 for Duckworth Select, Omoda, Jaecoo and Isuzu and 01673 842101 for Duckworth Land Rover, Market Rasen.