How to make sure your car is safe and ready for winter in Scotland

As the nights start drawing in, and the temperatures plummet, Andrew Dodds Autocare is here to ensure you and your vehicle are prepared.

Winter in Scotland can be breathtakingly beautiful, but it can also be brutal on your car. From icy backroads in the Highlands to sleet-covered city streets, the cold season demands preparation and vigilance from every driver. Ensuring your vehicle is winter-ready isn't just about convenience, it's about safety.

Here’s a comprehensive guide to preparing your car for Scottish winter conditions:

Check your tyres – they are your first line of defence

Ayrshire roads can turn slick and dangerous quickly. Rain, sleet, ice, and snow often make traction unpredictable. To stay safe:

• Tread depth should be at least 3 mm—the legal minimum is 1.6 mm, but a deeper tread provides better grip in winter.
• Tyre pressure drops in cold weather. Check it regularly or have your tyres filled with nitrogen from Andrew Dodds Autocare to help stabilise pressure, as nitrogen contains less moisture than traditional air.
• Winter tyres or all-season tyres can significantly improve grip, especially in rural or hilly areas.

Keep your car's battery healthy

Car batteries work harder in the cold, and battery failure is one of the top reasons for winter breakdowns.

• If your battery is over 4 years old, consider having it tested or replaced.
• Keep jump leads or a portable jump starter in your boot.
• Minimise short, low-speed journeys if possible. These drain the battery without giving it time to recharge.

Top up and check fluids

Cold weather thickens fluids and stresses components. Make sure all your levels are correct:.

• Antifreeze: Essential to stop your engine from freezing. Check the coolant mix is winter-appropriate.
• Screenwash: Use a solution that resists freezing to at least -10°C or lower.
• Fuel: Always keep your tank at least half full in winter – it helps prevent condensation in the tank and keeps you from getting stranded if roads close.
  

Check your wipers, lights, and visibility

Winter weather often means low visibility, so make sure your lights and wipers are in top condition:

• Replace wiper blades if they smear or squeak.
• Check all light bulbs, including headlights, indicators, brake lights, and fog lights.
• Clean your lights and mirrors regularly, as they get dirty fast in winter grime.
• Keep a spare set of bulbs in your car.
  

Prepare your windscreen for clear views ahead

A clear windscreen is essential for safe winter driving. With freezing temperatures, frost, and snow, your windscreen needs a bit of extra care.

• Make sure your wipers are in good condition and replace them as needed. Old or damaged wipers can smear your windscreen, reducing visibility. We maintain a large stock of window wipers to ensure you can obtain a replacement when needed.
  
• Keep a de-icer spray and ice scraper in your car. Don’t use hot water to defrost your windscreen, as the rapid temperature change can crack the glass. Instead, use a de-icer spray and scrape off any frost.
  
• Make sure your car's heaters are working efficiently. You’ll rely on them for comfort and to prevent your windscreen from misting up. It’s also useful to keep your air-con gas topped up, as this helps clear windows quicker.

At Andrew Dodds Autocare, we carry out all kinds of car repairs, so if you're looking for assistance near you, give us a call and we can help.

In case of emergencies, have a car kit

Breakdowns and delays are more likely in winter, especially in remote areas. Every Scottish driver should carry a winter emergency kit that includes:

• Blanket and warm clothing
• Hi-vis vest
• Ice scraper and de-icer
• Torch (with extra batteries)
• First aid kit
• Phone charger or power bank
• Non-perishable snacks and water
• Shovel (especially in rural or snowy areas)
• Warning triangle
  

Keep an eye on the weather forecast

Before any journey, check the weather and road conditions. The Scottish Government's Traffic Scotland website is a useful resource for live updates.

• Avoid travel during red or amber Met Office warnings.
• Plan alternate routes and tell someone your expected arrival time.

Don’t forget your MOT and service

Winter isn't the time to cut corners on maintenance.

• Ensure your MOT is up to date.
• Consider a pre-winter service to catch any issues early—especially brakes, heating, and exhaust systems.
• AD Autocare's mechanics can also check your battery, antifreeze, tyres, and belts, which are more prone to failure in cold weather.

For peace of mind on the roads, trust in Andrew Dodds Autocare

Scotland’s winters are unpredictable, from sudden snow showers to black ice on a country road. But with a bit of preparation, you can reduce the risk of accidents or breakdowns and keep yourself and others safe. Think of winter prep not just as a task, but as peace of mind.

Drive safe, plan ahead, and respect the road.

At Andrew Dodds Autocare in Ayr, we're ready to assist with all your winter car maintenance requirements. Whether you need a battery check, winter tyres fitted, or a service for your vehicle before the chilly months, we're here to help. Give us a call on 01292 299 023 to book your car in.