How to Prepare Your Car for Winter in Shrewsbury

Winter in Shrewsbury can be unpredictable. One day you’re facing frosty mornings and icy windscreens, the next it’s heavy rain and dark, wet roads. These conditions can take their toll on your vehicle, making winter preparation essential for both safety and performance.

At Auto Tech Direct, we specialise in keeping Shrewsbury drivers safe year-round. From MOT tests to diagnostic checks and tyre services, our expert team has put together this complete guide to help you prepare your car for winter — and avoid costly breakdowns when you need your car most.

1. Check Your Tyres

Your tyres are your car’s only contact with the road, making them critical in poor weather.

• Tread Depth: Check that your tyre tread is at least 3mm. While the legal limit is 1.6mm, extra depth improves grip on wet or icy roads.
• Tyre Pressure: Cold weather causes tyre pressure to drop, which can affect handling and fuel economy.
• Winter Tyres: If you live in rural Shropshire or travel regularly on country lanes, consider winter or all-season tyres for added safety.

Tip: Book a tyre check with Auto Tech Direct to ensure your tyres are in top condition before the worst weather arrives.

2. Test Your Battery

Car batteries are one of the most common causes of winter breakdowns. Cold weather reduces their efficiency, meaning a weak battery can leave you stranded.

• If your battery is over three years old, have it tested.
• Look out for slow cranking, dim headlights, or warning lights on your dashboard.
• Keep jump leads or a portable battery pack in your boot for emergencies.

At Auto Tech Direct, we offer battery health checks — giving you peace of mind on every journey.

3. Top Up Your Fluids

Winter weather can cause your car’s essential fluids to deplete faster than usual.

• Antifreeze: Ensure your coolant has the right antifreeze mix to protect your engine in sub-zero conditions.
• Screenwash: Switch to a winter-grade screenwash that won’t freeze in low temperatures.
• Oil Levels: Check your dipstick weekly and top up if needed — cold starts can be tough on engines with low oil.

Need help? Our diagnostics service can check for leaks or other issues that could cause problems in the cold.

4. Inspect Your Lights and Wipers

With shorter days and longer nights, visibility is key during winter.

• Lights: Clean all lenses and check for blown bulbs. Ensure your headlights are correctly aligned to avoid dazzling other drivers.
• Wipers: Replace worn blades for a streak-free view. Check washer jets are clear and spraying correctly.
• Defogging: Learn how to use your car’s heating and ventilation effectively to keep windows mist-free.

5. Pack a Winter Emergency Kit

Being prepared is half the battle when conditions worsen. Pack these essentials in your car:

• Ice scraper and de-icer
• Torch with spare batteries
• Blanket and spare clothing
• High-energy snacks and bottled water
• Jump leads or a battery booster
• Mobile phone charger

This simple kit can make all the difference if you’re stuck in traffic during a snowstorm or dealing with a roadside emergency.

6. Book a Professional Winter Check

Even if you’re confident with basic maintenance, a professional inspection can save you time, money, and stress. At Auto Tech Direct, we offer interim services, which are great for a pre-winter check-up on your vehicle and includes:

• Battery tests
• Tyre pressure and tread depth inspection
• Brake and suspension checks
• Fluid level and antifreeze checks
• Diagnostic scan for hidden faults

Our expert technicians can spot potential issues before they become costly breakdowns, keeping you safe on the road all winter.

7. Local Winter Driving Tips for Shrewsbury

Driving in Shropshire’s winter conditions comes with unique challenges. Here are some local tips:

• Stick to Main Roads: They’re usually gritted first and are safer during icy mornings.
• Increase Stopping Distance: Braking distances can double in wet weather and be even more on ice.
• Avoid Sudden Movements: Steer, accelerate, and brake smoothly to reduce the risk of skidding.
• Plan Ahead: Check local traffic and weather reports before setting off, especially if travelling early in the morning or late at night.
• Keep Fuel Above Half: In case of delays or detours, you won’t be caught short.

8. Why Choose Auto Tech Direct

As a family-run garage in Shrewsbury, we take pride in offering honest, reliable, and expert service to our community. Whether you need:

• A vehicle repair before the Christmas holiday journey
• A quick MOT test before the cold weather
• Or a simple winter safety check

…you can count on our team to keep you moving, safely and efficiently.

9. Book Your Winter Service Today

Don’t wait until the first frost catches you out. Booking your winter car service is quick and easy:

• Call us at 07368 491099
• Visit us at our Shrewsbury garage
• Or book online through our contact page

Stay safe this winter with Auto Tech Direct — your trusted Shrewsbury mechanic.

Legal Disclaimer:

The information provided in this blog is for general informational purposes only and does not constitute professional automotive, legal, or safety advice. While we strive to offer accurate and up-to-date content, we make no warranties or guarantees regarding the completeness, reliability, or suitability of the information. Readers should consult a certified mechanic or relevant professional before taking any action based on this content. Under no circumstances shall we be held liable for any damages, losses, or legal claims arising from the use or misuse of the information presented here.