15 Must-Do Car Checks Before Christmas Travel

Car checks become absolutely crucial during the festive season. The holidays bring joy, celebrations, and family gatherings across the UK. With Christmas and New Year just around the corner, millions of British motorists will be hitting the roads for holiday travel. However, winter weather combined with increased traffic makes this period one of the most demanding times for your vehicle. Understanding proper car checks and maintenance can be the difference between a smooth journey and a stressful breakdown on the motorway.

Why Winter Car Checks Matter More Than Ever

With over 42.3 million licensed vehicles on UK roads, the festive travel season puts unprecedented pressure on Britain’s road network. Recent industry analysis reveals a concerning trend: over 1.2 million vehicle breakdowns are expected during the winter months, equivalent to more than nine breakdowns every minute.

The winter months present unique challenges for vehicle owners. Cold temperatures, shorter daylight hours, and harsh weather conditions all take their toll on car components. Research shows that winter driving carries significantly higher risks, with drivers experiencing increased collision rates during these months compared to summer.

At Autonet VIP, we understand the importance of keeping your vehicle in peak condition throughout the festive season. Our commitment to providing exceptional automotive care ensures that your Christmas travels remain safe, comfortable, and worry-free.

The Shocking Reality of Winter Breakdowns

Battery-related issues dominate winter breakdown statistics. Flat batteries account for over 440,000 winter breakdowns, representing 35 per cent of all call outs, with battery-related call outs increasing 60 per cent during winter months. Monday mornings see the highest number of call-outs as vehicles parked throughout the weekend struggle to start in freezing conditions.

The financial impact of vehicle neglect extends beyond breakdown costs. Insurance data indicates that claim costs have risen substantially, with average costs per claim reaching significant levels due to increased parts, labour, and garage expenses. Proper maintenance before your Christmas journey can save you from becoming another statistic.

Understanding FORCES: Your Winter Maintenance Checklist

Before embarking on your festive travels, remember the acronym FORCES, which stands for Fuel, Oil, Rubber, Coolant, Electrics, and Screen wash. This simple memory aid covers the most critical checks that can prevent the majority of winter breakdowns.

1. Fuel: Plan Your Festive Journeys Wisely

Running out of fuel might seem unlikely, yet it remains one of the most common reasons for roadside assistance calls, particularly during harsh winter weather. With Christmas traffic congestion and unexpected diversions, what should be a short journey can quickly become extended.

Always ensure you have sufficient fuel for your planned journey, plus a reserve for unexpected delays. During the festive season, petrol stations may have reduced hours or experience temporary closures. Planning your fuel stops in advance eliminates unnecessary stress and ensures you reach your Christmas destination smoothly.

Consider the increased fuel consumption during winter months. Cold engines require more fuel to run efficiently, and using heaters, defrosters, and lights adds additional strain on your vehicle’s fuel economy. Keeping your tank above half-full also prevents moisture condensation in your fuel system, which can cause starting problems in freezing temperatures.

2. Oil: The Lifeblood of Your Engine

Oil maintenance represents one of the most crucial yet frequently overlooked aspects of vehicle care. Moving parts stay smooth and lubricated with engine oil, which also helps keep the engine at the right temperature. During winter, oil thickens in cold conditions, making it work harder to protect your engine.

Check your oil level regularly, especially before long Christmas journeys. Locate your dipstick, withdraw it, wipe it clean, reinsert it fully, then remove it again to check the oil level. The oil should be in the middle of the zero and one mark. If it’s low, top up with the correct specification oil for your vehicle, which you’ll find in your owner’s handbook.

Dark, dirty oil or oil that feels gritty between your fingers indicates it’s time for an oil change. Fresh oil flows more easily in cold weather, providing better engine protection. At Autonet VIP, our experienced technicians can perform comprehensive oil changes using quality lubricants perfectly matched to your vehicle’s requirements.

3. Rubber: Tyres and Wipers That Keep You Safe

Rubber components face particular challenges during winter months. Tyres and wiper blades are your primary defence against hazardous winter conditions, yet both deteriorate faster in cold, wet weather.

Tyre Safety for Winter Travel

Your tyres are the only contact point between your vehicle and the road surface. Legal minimum tread depth stands at 1.6mm across the central three-quarters of the tyre, but winter driving demands more. Safety experts recommend maintaining at least 3mm of tread depth during winter months for adequate grip on wet and icy roads.

Check all four tyres for signs of damage, including cuts, bulges, or embedded objects. Uneven wear patterns indicate alignment problems or incorrect inflation pressure. Speaking of pressure, cold weather causes tyre pressure to drop approximately one PSI for every 10-degree temperature decrease. Under-inflated tyres reduce fuel efficiency, increase stopping distances, and heighten the risk of blowouts.

The UK has 34.36 million cars on its roads, and proper tyre maintenance across this vast fleet could prevent countless accidents each winter. Verify correct tyre pressures at least fortnightly, and always before long journeys. Your vehicle’s handbook or the placard inside the driver’s door specifies the correct pressures.

Wiper Blade Excellence

Wiper blades endure constant punishment from rain, snow, ice, and road debris. Splits, cracks, or stiff rubber reduce wiping efficiency, leaving dangerous smears across your windscreen. During winter, this becomes particularly hazardous as reduced daylight and poor weather already compromise visibility.

Examine your wiper blades for deterioration. If they judder, skip, or leave streaks, replacement is essential. Modern wiper blades incorporate winter-specific designs that prevent ice buildup and maintain flexibility in freezing conditions. Prevent wiper blades from freezing to your windscreen by lifting them away from the glass when parking overnight during frosty weather.

4. Coolant: Preventing Frozen Engines

Despite its name, coolant serves dual purposes: preventing engine overheating in summer and protecting against freezing in winter. A frozen engine can cause catastrophic damage, potentially requiring complete engine replacement.

Modern vehicles use sealed cooling systems that shouldn’t require frequent top-ups. However, leaks can develop, particularly as vehicles age. Check your coolant level when the engine is completely cold by examining the expansion tank. The coolant should be visible between the minimum and maximum markers.

Coolant contains antifreeze, which lowers the freezing point of the mixture. Over time, antifreeze concentration diminishes, reducing protection. Most antifreeze provides protection to minus 37 degrees Celsius when mixed correctly with water. Have your coolant concentration tested before winter, particularly if your vehicle is over three years old or you’ve noticed a dropping coolant level.

Never remove the radiator cap when the engine is hot, as pressurised coolant can cause severe scalding injuries. If you need to top up coolant, use the correct specification mixture as detailed in your owner’s handbook. At Autonet VIP, we offer comprehensive cooling system services, including pressure testing, concentration checks, and complete coolant replacement using manufacturer-approved products.

5. Electrics: Lighting the Way Through Winter Darkness

December and January bring Britain’s shortest days and longest nights. Functional lights are essential for seeing and being seen during festive travel. From headlights and fog lights to indicator and brake lights, every bulb serves a critical safety function.

Conduct a complete lights check with assistance from a friend or family member. Have them walk around the vehicle whilst you operate each lighting function: dipped beam, main beam, fog lights, indicators, brake lights, reversing lights, and number plate lights. Faulty lights not only compromise safety but can result in fines and penalty points.

Battery Health: The Winter Vulnerability

Vehicle batteries work significantly harder during winter. Cold weather reduces battery capacity, whilst increased electrical demands from heaters, defrosters, heated seats, and lights place additional strain on already-weakened batteries. Battery-related faults dominate winter breakdown statistics, making battery maintenance absolutely critical before Christmas travel.

When used normally, most batteries last four to five years. If your battery exceeds this age, consider replacing it preemptively rather than risking a breakdown. Warning signs of battery deterioration include slow engine cranking, dimming headlights when starting, and electrical accessories that function sluggishly.

Battery terminals corrode over time, particularly in winter’s damp conditions. Inspect terminals for white, blue, or green powdery deposits. Clean corrosion using a wire brush and solution of bicarbonate of soda mixed with warm water, ensuring terminals are completely dry before reconnecting cables. Applying a thin layer of petroleum jelly or dedicated terminal protector helps prevent future corrosion, though specialist products designed for this purpose offer superior protection without hindering conductivity.

At Autonet VIP, we provide comprehensive battery testing services using professional diagnostic equipment. We assess not just the battery itself, but also the charging system and parasitic drain issues that might be depleting your battery overnight.

6. Screen Wash: Crystal Clear Vision

Maintaining clear visibility ranks among the most fundamental safety requirements. Winter conditions create particularly challenging circumstances: grit, salt, snow, and spray from other vehicles combine to coat your windscreen in a vision-obscuring film within minutes.

Check your screen wash reservoir level weekly during winter, and always before long journeys. Use quality screen wash additive or pre-mixed solution, never plain water. Water freezes in winter, potentially cracking your screen wash reservoir and pipework. Purpose-made screen wash contains antifreeze, prevents freezing to temperatures as low as minus 20 degrees Celsius, and includes cleaning agents that remove stubborn road grime and insect residue.

Some drivers dilute screen wash excessively to economise, but this proves counterproductive. Weakly diluted screen wash freezes more easily and cleans less effectively, increasing the amount you ultimately use. Follow manufacturer recommendations for correct mixing ratios, or purchase ready-mixed solutions that require no preparation.

Beyond FORCES: Additional Critical Christmas Checks

Whilst FORCES covers essential basics, comprehensive winter preparation extends further. These additional checks help ensure your vehicle handles everything the festive season presents.

7. Engine Air Filter: Breathing Easy in Winter

Your engine requires clean air to operate efficiently. The engine air filter prevents dust, debris, and contaminants from entering the combustion chambers, where they would cause damage and reduce performance.

Clogged air filters restrict airflow, reducing engine power and decreasing fuel efficiency. Mechanics recommend replacing air filters every 12 months or 12,000 miles, whichever occurs first. However, vehicles frequently driven on dusty roads or in heavy traffic may require more frequent replacement.

Locating and checking your air filter proves straightforward on most vehicles. The filter typically sits inside a black plastic housing under the bonnet. Release the clips, remove the old filter, and examine it. If it appears dirty, discoloured, or contains visible debris, replacement is necessary. Note how the filter sits before removal to ensure correct installation of the replacement. Consult your vehicle handbook for specific instructions.

8. Spark Plugs: The Ignition Essential (Petrol Engines)

Spark plugs ignite the air-fuel mixture within your engine’s cylinders, making them integral to engine operation. Worn or fouled spark plugs cause engine misfires, rough idling, reduced performance, and increased fuel consumption.

Generally, spark plugs require replacement every 30,000 miles, though some modern long-life plugs last up to 100,000 miles. Consult your vehicle’s service schedule for specific intervals. Winter’s cold conditions make worn spark plugs more problematic, as they struggle to generate sufficient spark to ignite cold fuel mixtures reliably.

Replacing spark plugs requires appropriate tools and some mechanical knowledge. If you’re comfortable performing this maintenance yourself, ensure you use the correct spark plug specification for your engine, maintain proper gap settings, and torque plugs to manufacturer specifications. However, many modern engines feature spark plugs buried deep within the engine, requiring significant dismantling to access. For these vehicles, professional service represents the safer, more practical option.

9. Brakes: Your Ultimate Safety System

Properly functioning brakes represent your primary defence against accidents. Compromised braking performance dramatically increases stopping distances, particularly on wet or icy winter roads.

Start by checking brake fluid level in the reservoir under your bonnet.The fluid needs to be in the middle of the minimum and maximum marks. Low brake fluid might indicate worn brake pads or a leak in the system, both requiring immediate professional attention. Brake fluid is highly corrosive, so exercise caution when handling it and clean any spills immediately.

Over time, brake fluid absorbs water, which lowers its boiling point and makes it less effective at stopping. Replace brake fluid according to your vehicle’s service schedule, typically every two to three years. Fresh brake fluid maintains optimal performance even under heavy braking conditions.

Pay attention to brake performance and unusual symptoms. Squeaking or grinding noises indicate worn brake pads requiring replacement. Vibration through the brake pedal suggests warped discs. Spongy brake pedal feel or increased pedal travel points to air in the brake lines or low fluid level. Any of these symptoms warrant immediate professional inspection at Autonet VIP, where our qualified technicians can diagnose and resolve brake issues before they compromise your safety.

10. Air Conditioning: Not Just for Summer

Many drivers consider air conditioning a summer luxury, but it serves important functions during winter too. Running your air conditioning regularly, even during cold weather, prevents seals from drying out and maintains system lubrication. More importantly, air conditioning rapidly demists windows, significantly improving visibility during damp winter conditions.

Air conditioning systems require periodic servicing to maintain optimal performance. The refrigerant gas naturally depletes over time, even in perfectly sealed systems. When refrigerant levels drop too low, cooling effectiveness diminishes, and the system may cease operating entirely.

Visual inspection can identify obvious problems like damaged pipework or leaks, but comprehensive air conditioning service requires specialist equipment. Professional servicing includes evacuating old refrigerant, checking for leaks, replacing worn components, and recharging with fresh refrigerant and system lubricant.

If your air conditioning feels less effective than previously or produces strange odours, it requires attention. Musty smells indicate bacterial growth within the system, whilst lack of cold air suggests low refrigerant or compressor failure. Autonet VIP offers comprehensive air conditioning servicing, including system regas, leak detection, and component replacement, ensuring your climate control performs flawlessly throughout winter.

11. Interior Care: Clean, Safe and Comfortable

A clean interior isn’t merely about aesthetics; it directly impacts safety and driving comfort. Accumulated clutter, particularly in footwells, poses serious hazards. Objects rolling under pedals can prevent proper pedal operation, potentially causing accidents.

Clear your footwells completely, removing anything that could interfere with pedal operation. Store emergency equipment in appropriate locations, not loose where they might shift during driving. Keep your boot organised, ensuring heavy items are secured and can’t slide forward during braking or cornering.

Clean your dashboard and centre console regularly, paying particular attention to instrument displays and touch screens. Dirty screens reduce visibility and functionality. Interior windows accumulate film from plastics and dashboard materials, significantly reducing visibility, particularly when driving into low winter sun or oncoming headlights. Clean interior glass regularly using proper glass cleaner and microfibre cloths for streak-free clarity.

Consider your ventilation system’s cabin filter, which removes dust, pollen, and pollutants from incoming air. Clogged cabin filters reduce heating and ventilation efficiency, cause unpleasant odours, and compromise demisting performance. Replace cabin filters according to your vehicle’s service schedule, typically annually or every 12,000 miles.

12. Exterior Maintenance: Protection Against Winter Elements

Regular washing protects your vehicle from winter’s corrosive elements. Road salt, whilst essential for road safety, aggressively corrodes vehicle bodywork, particularly on wheel arches, sills, and undersides. Frequent washing removes salt deposits before they cause permanent damage.

Focus particularly on often-overlooked areas:

Headlights and Tail Lights: Dirty lenses dramatically reduce light output, compromising both visibility and your ability to be seen by other road users. Clean lights regularly using appropriate products that won’t scratch plastic lenses.

Number Plates: UK law requires registration plates to be clearly visible at all times. Obscured plates can result in fines and penalty points. Clean plates regularly, and ensure mounting is secure and properly illuminated.

Windows and Mirrors: Perfect visibility proves crucial during winter’s challenging conditions. Clean all windows and mirrors regularly, inside and out. Replace worn or damaged mirror glass promptly.

Wheel Wells: These areas accumulate salt, grit, and road debris. Regular cleaning prevents corrosion and helps maintain structural integrity. Consider professional undersealing for additional protection.

13. Emergency Kit: Preparation for the Unexpected

Despite perfect maintenance, unexpected situations can arise during winter travel. A comprehensive emergency kit provides essential items should you face breakdown or become stranded.

Your winter emergency kit should include:

• High-visibility clothing or vest
• Warning triangle
• Torch with spare batteries
• First aid kit
• Jump leads or portable jump starter
• Tow rope
• Ice scraper and de-icer
• Blankets or sleeping bag
• Food and water
• Fully charged mobile phone or portable charger
• List of emergency contacts, including breakdown cover details

Keep these items readily accessible in your vehicle throughout winter. Regular checks ensure batteries remain charged, food hasn’t expired, and equipment remains functional when needed.

14. Windscreen and Glass Protection

Your windscreen endures significant stress during winter. Temperature fluctuations, ice scraping, and stone impacts all threaten glass integrity. Even small chips can rapidly develop into large cracks when subjected to temperature extremes.

Inspect your windscreen for damage before winter. Small chips often qualify for professional repair, which costs significantly less than complete windscreen replacement. Many insurance policies cover windscreen repairs without affecting your no-claims bonus, making professional repair both sensible and economical.

Never use boiling water to de-ice frozen windscreens, as the thermal shock can crack glass. Use proper de-icer or lukewarm water instead, allowing sufficient time for thorough defrosting before driving. Scraping ice whilst it’s still partially frozen increases the risk of scratching glass.

Washer jets require particular attention during winter. Blocked jets prevent proper windscreen cleaning, whilst misdirected jets waste screen wash. Check jets spray correctly onto the windscreen, clearing the wiper blade path effectively. Small pins or needles can clear blocked jets, though be gentle to avoid damaging the nozzle.

15. Professional Servicing: The Autonet VIP Advantage

Whilst many maintenance checks can be performed at home, comprehensive vehicle servicing requires professional expertise, specialist equipment, and diagnostic capabilities that only experienced technicians possess.

At Autonet VIP, we provide comprehensive vehicle servicing tailored to your car’s specific requirements. Our qualified technicians follow manufacturer service schedules, using approved parts and lubricants to maintain your vehicle’s optimal performance and preserve warranty coverage.

Our winter service packages include:

• Complete FORCES inspection
• Battery health assessment using professional diagnostic equipment
• Brake system inspection including pad wear, disc condition, and fluid quality
• Suspension and steering checks
• Exhaust system inspection
• Lights and electrical system testing
• Diagnostic scan for stored fault codes
• Comprehensive vehicle report detailing condition and any recommendations

Professional servicing provides peace of mind that your vehicle has received expert attention from experienced technicians. We identify potential problems before they become expensive failures, saving you money whilst keeping you safe on winter roads.

Planning Your Christmas Journey

Beyond vehicle preparation, journey planning significantly reduces stress and improves safety during festive travel.

Check traffic reports before departure. Christmas and New Year periods see significantly increased traffic volumes, particularly on major routes. Planning departure times to avoid peak congestion reduces journey stress and fuel consumption.

Allow extra time for your journey. Winter conditions frequently cause delays, and rushing increases accident risk. Departing earlier provides buffer time for unexpected circumstances.

Plan your route carefully, considering weather forecasts and road conditions. Some routes prove more susceptible to winter weather closures than others. Major motorways generally receive priority gritting and clearing, whilst rural routes may become impassable during heavy snow.

Before you leave, make sure your cell phone is fully charged. Download relevant apps providing real-time traffic updates, weather information, and roadside assistance contact details. Tell your family or friends where you’re going and when you think you’ll get there.

When to Seek Professional Help

Whilst regular checks prevent many problems, certain symptoms demand immediate professional attention:

• Warning lights illuminated on your dashboard
• Unusual noises from engine, brakes, or suspension
• Vibrations through steering wheel or pedals
• Difficulty starting or rough running
• Smoke from exhaust (particularly blue or white smoke)
• Fluid leaks under your vehicle
• Strange smells, particularly burning odours
• Reduced braking effectiveness
• Unusual tyre wear patterns
• Steering pulling to one side

These symptoms indicate problems requiring expert diagnosis and repair. Continuing to drive a vehicle displaying these issues risks catastrophic failure, potentially causing accidents or expensive damage.

The Autonet VIP Promise

At Autonet VIP, we’re committed to keeping you safely on the road throughout the festive season and beyond. Our team of qualified technicians brings decades of combined experience to every service, using the latest diagnostic equipment and following manufacturer-approved procedures.

We understand that vehicle maintenance represents significant investment, which is why we provide transparent pricing, detailed explanations of required work, and honest advice about service priorities. We never recommend unnecessary work, and we always seek your approval before performing additional services beyond the initially agreed scope.

Our state-of-the-art facilities feature the latest equipment for comprehensive vehicle diagnostics, servicing, and repairs. From routine oil changes to complex engine repairs, we handle all aspects of vehicle maintenance to the highest standards.

We stock extensive inventories of quality parts, ensuring rapid turnaround times for most services and repairs. Where specialist parts are required, our established relationships with suppliers ensure prompt availability at competitive prices.

Make This Christmas Journey Your Safest Yet

The festive season should be about celebration, not vehicle breakdowns. With millions of vehicles on British roads and winter conditions creating additional challenges, proper vehicle maintenance isn’t optional—it’s essential for safety, reliability, and peace of mind.

Taking time now to perform these essential checks, or booking professional servicing at Autonet VIP, ensures your vehicle is perfectly prepared for Christmas and New Year travel. Don’t risk becoming one of the thousands of motorists who experience preventable breakdowns during the festive period.

Whether you’re travelling across the country to spend Christmas with family, embarking on a New Year’s break, or simply commuting through winter conditions, proper vehicle preparation makes all the difference between stress-free travel and roadside disaster.

Your Next Steps

Don’t leave your vehicle maintenance to chance this Christmas. Contact Autonet VIP today to book your comprehensive winter service. Our friendly team is ready to schedule your appointment at a time that suits your busy festive schedule.

Visit us at Autonet VIP, where professional service, expert advice, and customer satisfaction combine to deliver the automotive care your vehicle deserves. Make this Christmas your safest, most reliable journey yet.

Remember: a few minutes spent on maintenance now prevents hours of frustration later. Your vehicle works hard for you throughout the year—give it the care it needs to carry you safely through the festive season.

Wishing you safe travels and a wonderful Christmas and New Year from all of us at Autonet VIP.