Top 10 Car Maintenance Mistakes to Avoid Over Winter
Winter is a tough time for vehicles in the UK, and Worcester is no exception. Freezing temperatures, road salt, short daylight hours, and unpredictable weather all take a toll on your car. What many drivers don’t realise is that small mistakes, or simple neglect, can quickly lead to big problems.
At Lowes Garage, we see a spike in breakdowns and repair call-outs every winter, many of which could have been avoided with a bit of preparation and the right knowledge. In this blog, we’re breaking down the most common car maintenance mistakes drivers make during the colder months, and how to avoid them.
1. Ignoring the Battery Until It Dies
Cold weather reduces a battery’s performance. Starting your engine takes more power in winter, but older batteries may struggle and suddenly give up without warning.
The fix: If your battery is more than four years old, get it tested. At Lowes Garage, we’ll check your battery’s health and charging system. Replacing a weak battery now is cheaper and easier than waiting until you’re stranded on a frosty morning.
2. Skipping Winter Tyre Checks
Many drivers overlook tyres unless there’s an obvious puncture. But in winter, tread depth and pressure are even more critical. Cold air reduces tyre pressure, and worn tread leads to longer stopping distances on icy roads.
The fix: Check your tyres every two weeks. Look for at least 3mm of tread in winter and keep them properly inflated. We offer tyre services in Worcester including winter tyre fitting and pressure checks.
3. Using Summer Screen Wash
Standard screen wash often freezes below -5°C, leaving you unable to clean your windscreen. Visibility is already reduced in winter; frozen washers make it worse—and illegal.
The fix: Switch to a winter-grade screen wash rated to -10°C or below. We can top this up as part of your winter car check.
4. Driving with Low Coolant or No Antifreeze
Coolant doesn’t just keep your engine from overheating—it also prevents it from freezing in cold weather. Low or diluted coolant can lead to burst pipes or a cracked engine block.
The fix: Check your coolant level and antifreeze strength regularly. Our technicians can do this during a service or winter check at our Worcester garage.
5. Forgetting to Clean Lights and Indicators
Salt, grime, and snow can quickly cover your lights, making it harder for others to see you and affecting your visibility.
The fix: Wipe all lights before every journey. It takes less than a minute and could prevent an accident. If any bulbs are dim or flickering, book a quick replacement at Lowes Garage.
6. Not Checking the Heating and Demisters
Your heating system isn’t just for comfort—it clears condensation and ice from the windows. A failed blower motor or demister can leave you with foggy windows and poor visibility.
The fix: Check that all vents work and that the windscreen clears quickly. If your car takes ages to demist, book a service with our team for inspection and repair.
7. Delaying Engine Diagnostics
Drivers often ignore the check engine light if the car feels normal. But winter driving puts extra stress on mechanical and electrical systems. That small warning can become a big failure if left unresolved.
The fix: Book an engine diagnostic with Lowes Garage. We’ll scan your car’s computer, interpret the codes, and recommend the right fix.
8. Letting Wipers Wear Out
Frozen windscreens can crack old wiper blades, and worn blades smear dirt instead of clearing it. This affects your vision and could even damage the windscreen.
The fix: Replace worn or noisy blades. We offer winter-rated blades for improved performance in freezing rain and snow.
9. Neglecting Brake Checks
Wet, icy roads demand perfect braking performance. But winter can worsen underlying problems like worn pads or corroded discs.
The fix: Book a brake inspection before problems appear. We’ll check your pads, discs, fluid, and callipers to keep your braking sharp.
10. Not Carrying Emergency Essentials
Even short winter journeys can turn into long delays if there’s snow or a breakdown. Having basic emergency items can make a huge difference.
The fix: Pack a kit with:
- Ice scraper and de-icer
- Blanket, gloves, and hat
- High-vis vest
- Torch and spare batteries
- Phone charger or power bank
- Non-perishable snacks and water
Keep it in the boot just in case.
Bonus Tip: Don’t Forget to Book a Winter Health Check
The best way to prevent most of the above issues is to book a winter health check with a trusted garage. At Lowes Garage, our seasonal checks include:
- Battery and charging system test
- Tyre tread and pressure check
- Coolant and antifreeze levels
- Wiper blades and screen wash
- Brake condition
- Lights and visibility
We’ll give you peace of mind before the worst of the winter sets in.
FAQs: Car Maintenance in Winter
1. How often should I service my car in winter?
You should follow your regular schedule, but it’s worth adding a winter check for safety. We can combine both into one convenient visit.
2. Are winter tyres worth it?
Absolutely. In cold, wet, or icy conditions, they offer significantly better grip and shorter stopping distances. We stock a full range in Worcester.
3. Can I drive if my battery light is on?
No, it usually means the alternator isn’t charging the battery. You could break down at any moment.
4. What screen wash is best in freezing weather?
Use a winter mix rated to at least -10°C. Avoid topping up with plain water—it dilutes the solution and raises the freezing point.
5. My car has trouble starting in the cold, is that normal?
It could be a sign your battery is weak or your spark plugs need replacing. Book in for a battery test and inspection.
Case Study: Avoiding Trouble with a Pre-Winter Service
A customer from St John’s booked a full service with us in early December. Our technicians spotted low tyre pressure, a weak battery, and wiper blades on the verge of tearing. We sorted everything the same day.
A week later, the customer drove to Yorkshire for a family visit during a snowstorm—no problems at all. They later told us they felt safe knowing their car was winter-ready.
Why Choose Lowes Garage for Winter Servicing in Worcester?
- Trusted by local drivers in Worcester, Warndon, Kempsey, and Malvern
- Full range of services under one roof
- Transparent pricing and honest advice
- Same-day appointments for urgent checks
- Expert technicians trained on all makes and models
In addition to winter health checks, we offer:
- MOT testing
- Tyre fitting
- Brake repairs
- Engine diagnostics
- Valeting
- Tow bar installation
Summary: Stay Ahead of Winter Trouble
Most winter breakdowns are preventable. With the right preparation and regular checks, your car can handle everything the season throws at it. Whether it’s checking your battery, changing your tyres, or just swapping your screen wash, a little time now saves a lot of stress later.
Book your winter car check or service at Lowes Garage today. Serving Worcester and the wider Worcestershire area, we’re here to keep you safe, warm, and moving all winter long.
