How to Prepare Your Car for Winter
Cold weather is here — is your car ready?
While we’re not quite facing an invasion of White Walkers, like Jon Snow ominously warned in Game of Thrones, winter in Australia still brings its fair share of hazards — cold temperatures, icy roads, and wet conditions that can all take a toll on your vehicle. At Tynan Motors, we want to help you stay safe and prepared. Here’s how you can winter-proof your vehicle to ensure smooth, trouble-free driving all season long.
1. Look After Your Battery
As temperatures drop, so does your battery’s performance. Cold weather slows down chemical reactions, which can reduce power output and place more strain on your vehicle’s electrical systems.
🚨 Watch for warning signs like:
- Dimmed headlights
- Slow windscreen wipers
- Lagging dashboard or infotainment performance
If you see the ‘Check Battery’ light, it’s time to act. For EV owners, cold weather can also decrease battery range. To maintain performance:
- Keep your charge between 20–80%
- Pre-warm the vehicle 20–30 minutes before charging
- Consider using a heat pump system, if available, to efficiently warm the cabin and battery
2. Check Your Lights
Shorter days and foggy mornings mean visibility is key. Check:
- Headlights
- Tail lights
- High beams
- Fog lights
Replace any bulbs that are dimming or have stopped working. Clean your light covers for maximum brightness.
3. Care for Your Windscreen and Wipers
Rain, frost, and debris can seriously impair your visibility.
- Replace worn wiper blades
- Keep your windscreen clean, inside and out
- Use a proper windscreen washer fluid (not just water)
Pro tip: If your wipers smear or judder, they’re due for replacement.
4. Coolant and Oil – Don’t Overlook the Essentials
Your engine’s coolant system plays a major role in maintaining an optimal temperature. Check your coolant reservoir:
- Healthy coolant should be clear and brightly coloured
- If it’s brown, sludgy or has particles floating in it, it may need flushing
Also, keep an eye on engine oil levels — cold starts in winter make high-quality oil even more crucial.
5. Inspect Your Tyres
Good tyres are your first line of defence in wet or icy conditions. Look for:
- Sufficient tread depth (minimum 1.5mm by law — but more is better)
- Even wear
- No cracks or bulges
If your tyres are worn or bald, replace them immediately. For those heading to alpine areas, carrying snow chains is not only smart — it’s required by law in states like Victoria, with heavy fines for non-compliance.
6. Be Prepared, Stay Safe
Winter driving means reduced visibility, slippery roads, and longer stopping distances. Maintaining your vehicle doesn’t just protect your car — it protects you and others on the road.
⚠️ Neglecting basics like tyres, batteries, and wipers can lead to breakdowns and accidents. Stay alert, get your vehicle checked, and remember: if your car isn’t operating at 100%, you’re putting yourself at risk.
Book a Winter Health Check at Tynan Motors
Not sure where to start? Let the professionals help. Book a Winter Vehicle Inspection at your nearest Tynan Motors service centre. Our expert technicians will check all the key systems and ensure your car is ready for anything winter throws your way.
Winter is here — but with a little preparation, your car will be ready.
Ensure you search the Tynan stock through our link here.
Credit: CarSales.com.au