New Year car care: protect your car through ice, snow and winter weather

The New Year is the ideal time to give your car some attention, particularly while winter weather is still firmly in place. Icy mornings, freezing temperatures and snow can all affect your vehicle, so a few simple checks now can help protect your car and keep it in great condition for the year ahead.

From tyres and visibility to protecting your paintwork, this Classic Additions guide focuses on practical winter car care with a particular emphasis on keeping your car protected in cold, harsh conditions. If like us, you live rurally, even more reason to plan ahead.

Check your tyres for winter driving -

Cold weather can cause tyre pressures to drop, reducing grip and handling on icy roads. Check tyre pressures regularly using a gauge at home or at a fuel forecourt.

Tyre tread is equally important in snow and wet winter conditions. Use the 20p test if the outer band of the coin is visible, your tyres may need replacing. Alternatively, check the tread wear indicators or use a tread depth gauge for accuracy.

Top up antifreeze and screen wash -

Antifreeze is essential during freezing weather to prevent engine damage. Make sure levels are correct and suitable for low temperatures.

Winter driving also means dirty roads, salt and spray. Use a winter-grade screen wash and keep a spare bottle in the boot to maintain clear visibility.

Prepare for icy mornings -

An ice scraper is a winter essential. While de-icer sprays can help, they aren’t always kind to paintwork. A more effective solution is a Classic Additions half car cover, designed to keep the windscreen and cockpit ice-free on frosty mornings.

Classic Additions car covers are available in a range of colours and styles. For advice on choosing the right option, visit www.classicadditions.com or call 01938 561717.

Clean and protect your car’s paintwork -

Road salt, grime and damp conditions can quickly damage paintwork if left untreated. Regular winter cleaning is key, especially for cars stored outdoors.

Once clean, you can protect your vehicle with an outdoor car cover from Classic Additions. The range of outdoor car covers is suitable for both short- and long-term use and helps shield your car from rain, frost, snow and dirt throughout winter. If you’re unsure which outdoor cover is best for your car, the team is happy to help.

Indoor car storage protection -

For vehicles kept in garages or storage units, an indoor car cover provides year-round protection from dust, marks and accidental knocks. Classic Additions indoor car covers are suitable for long-term storage and include super-soft stretch covers and custom-made options, available in a wide choice of colours.

Check lights and wipers -

Dark mornings and evenings are a reality during winter. Check all exterior lights regularly, including indicators and brake lights.

Windscreen wipers also work harder in winter conditions. If they’re streaking or squeaking, replacing them will improve visibility in rain, sleet and snow.

Review your winter breakdown kit -

Cold weather can be unpredictable, so it’s worth checking your emergency breakdown kit. Make sure essentials such as a warning triangle, torch and high-visibility vest are present and working.

Final winter check: don’t forget your phone charger and make sure it still fits your phone.

Happy driving from all of us here at Classic Additions!