As the days get shorter and the temperature drops, it’s time to make sure you – and your car – are ready for winter driving. Whether you’re doing the school run, heading to work, or planning a festive road trip, staying safe on the roads is key.
Here are our top 5 winter driving safety tips, straight from the Ancaster team:
- Check Your Tyres
Tyres are your car’s only contact with the road – and grip matters even more in wet, icy or snowy conditions.
✔ Make sure your tread depth is at least 3mm
✔ Check tyre pressures regularly (cold weather can lower them)
✔ Consider winter tyres if you live in a rural or hilly area
- Keep Your Battery in Check
Cold weather can be tough on car batteries, especially if they’re more than a few years old. If your car is slow to start or the lights seem dim, it might be time for a battery check.
- Top Up Your Fluids (Especially Screen Wash!)
Salt, slush and spray can leave your windscreen filthy in seconds.
Make sure your screen wash is topped up, and check levels of antifreeze and brake fluid too.
- Drive Smoothly, Brake Early
In slippery conditions, sudden braking or sharp steering can cause your car to lose grip.
✔ Slow down and leave extra room between you and the car in front
✔ Use gentle acceleration and early braking
✔ Be especially cautious on untreated roads, bridges, and shaded areas that freeze first
- Pack a Winter Emergency Kit
Even if you don’t need it, it’s worth having:
✔ Ice scraper & de-icer
✔ Torch & spare batteries
✔ Blanket, gloves, and snacks
✔ Phone charger & power bank
✔ Warning triangle and hi-vis jacket
It only takes a few minutes to prepare – but could save you a lot of stress later.
Need a Winter Check? We’ve Got You Covered.
At Ancaster, we offer seasonal health checks at all our dealerships across Slough, Heathrow, Shepperton, Epsom, South Croydon, Croydon, Penge, Bromley, Chislehurst, Eltham and Dartford. We'll inspect so you're ready to take on the season safely.
Book online or pop in and speak to your local team – we’re always happy to help.
