Autumn & Winter Car Care

As the seasons change, so do the demands on your car. Autumn and winter bring shorter days, wet roads, frost, and even snow — all of which can challenge your car’s performance and your safety. Here are some essential tips to help you prepare your vehicle for the colder months ahead.

Driving in autumn and winter should be just as enjoyable as in summer — as long as your car is prepared. A few proactive checks will not only keep you safe but also protect your vehicle from unnecessary wear and tear. Below are a few simple ideas of things to look at as we come into the autumn and winter months:

Tyres on a rack, ready to go on cars

Tyres: Grip Matters Most

Your tyres are the only contact point between your car and the road.

Check tread depth

The legal tread depth minimum is 1.6mm, however for winter driving, we would recommend 3mm+.

Consider winter or all-season tyres

These offer better grip in cold, wet, or icy conditions.

Maintain tyre pressures

Cold weather can lower tyre pressures, reducing efficiency and safety.

Car battery being charged with jump leads

Battery Health: Cold Starts Need Power

Cold temperatures put extra strain on your battery.

Test your battery before winter

Weak batteries are more likely to fail in low temperatures. Get in touch if you would like to book a battery health test.

Look out for signs

Signs such as a slow engine turnover or dimming lights could indicate that your battery isn't running at full health.

If it’s over 5 years old

You could consider replacement for peace of mind. We would advise running a battery health test before replacement.

Checking oil level in an engine

Fluids & Oils: Keep Things Flowing

Coolant / antifreeze

Ensure levels are checked reguarly to prevent freezing and protect the engine.

Windscreen washer fluid

Ensure this is topped up with winter-grade solution to prevent freezing.

Manufacturer-approved oils

Tend to perform better under cold start conditions - for advice on oils, please give us a call.

BMW headlight in the rain

Lights & Visibility: See and Be Seen

With darker evenings and foggy mornings, visibility is key.

Check all exterior lights

— headlights, fog lights, brake lights, and indicators.

Replace worn wiper blades

and keep the windscreen clear of smears.

Carry a de-icer

and ice scraper in your glovebox to ensure visibility.

dack anti-corrosion brake treatment AI image

Brakes & Suspension: Stay in Control

Ensure your brake pads and discs are in good condition

Autumn conditions and winter ice can make roads slippery. Get in touch to get your brakes checked over, or take advantage of our brake anti corrosion treatment.

Listen out for knocks or rattles in the suspension

Potholes and cold weather can make minor issues worse, and can cause issues with your alignment. Get in touch if you would like advice or an alignment check.

Emergency Car kit example AI image

Emergency Kit: Just Incase

Keep a simple emergency kit in your BMW during the colder months:

Ice scraper or de-icer
Torch and spare batteries
High-vis vest & warning triangle
Blanket, gloves, and a warm coat
Phone charger and bottled water

BMW wheel being checked at Dack Motor Group Lincoln

Regular Servicing: Prevention is Better Than Cure

Seasonal checks can save you from unexpected breakdowns.

Dack BMW Club members have access to discounted servicing, diagnostics, and MOTs, making it easy to keep your car in peak condition all year round.