Winter Consumables Checklist
- Battery â test before winter. Batteries over 4 years old are at high risk. A cold morning at -5°C is when weak batteries fail.
- Wiper blades â fresh blades handle rain, sleet, and salt spray much better. Fit new ones in October.
- Bulbs â winter means more driving in the dark. Check every external bulb works. Upgrade to brighter headlight bulbs for improved visibility.
- Engine oil â ensure correct grade. Low-viscosity oils (0W-20, 0W-30) provide much better cold start protection than 5W-40 or 10W-40.
- Cabin filter â a clean filter ensures your demister works effectively, critical for cold-weather windscreen clearing.
- Screenwash â top up with winter-rated (-15°C minimum) screenwash concentrate. Water alone will freeze in the jets.
Frequently Asked Questions
October is ideal. Early enough to address any issues before the first frost, but late enough that new wipers won’t degrade before winter rain arrives.
A complete DIY winter prep (wipers, battery check, bulb check, screenwash, oil top-up) costs under £50 in parts. A garage will charge £80-150.
