South African winters might not come with snowstorms, but the chilly mornings, damp conditions, and unpredictable rain can still challenge your vehicle’s performance. Whether you’re commuting daily or planning longer winter drives, giving your car a seasonal check-up can help prevent breakdowns and keep you safer on the roads.
Here’s how to get your car winter-ready, the South African way.
1. Battery Testing and Fitment.
Cold weather slows the chemical processes in your battery, reducing its effectiveness, especially if it’s already weak. If your car is slow to start or you’ve noticed flickering lights, don’t ignore it.
A quick and easy way to prevent a winter breakdown is by testing your battery. Naskar offers free battery checks. You can also follow the advice from this AA guide on winter car prep , which highlights just how crucial battery health becomes during the colder months.
2. Tyres: Your First Line of Defence on Wet Roads
Tyres in good condition are vital for safe winter driving. Reduced grip on wet roads can lead to aquaplaning or increased stopping distances.
Check that:
- Tread depth is above the legal limit (1.6mm, but 3mm is safer for winter).
- Tyre pressure is correct (it tends to drop in colder weather).
- There are no visible cracks or bulges.
Regular rotation and alignment also help with tyre longevity and overall performance.
3. Replace Wiper Blades and Top Up Washer Fluid
Visibility is everything in winter. From early morning mist to surprise downpours, your wipers need to be in excellent shape.
- Check for smearing or squeaking.
- Replace wiper blades if they’re cracked or stiff.
- Use a quality washer fluid to cut through grime and mist.
A good set of wipers and clean windscreen can be the difference between safe driving and a dangerous situation, especially in heavy rain or when dealing with spray from other vehicles.
4. Test Your Lights
With shorter daylight hours and cloudy conditions, you’ll use your lights more often in winter. Do a full check of:
- Headlights
- Tail lights
- Brake lights
- Indicators
- Fog lights
Clean the lenses and replace any blown bulbs to make sure you’re seen clearly on the road.
5. Heating, Demisters and Cabin Comfort
A working heater isn’t just about staying warm – it also helps clear foggy windows and keeps your windscreen free of condensation.
- Test your heating system before it gets too cold.
- Ensure your cabin air filter is clean for proper airflow.
- If demisters aren’t working, get them checked out promptly.
The folks at DEKRA offer more tips in their article on how to conquer the cold with car maintenance.
6. Check Fluid Levels
Cold temperatures can cause fluids to thicken or drop. Make sure your:
- Engine oil is clean and topped up.
- Coolant (antifreeze) is filled to the correct level to prevent overheating or freezing.
- Brake fluid is within recommended levels.
- Windscreen washer fluid is full and suitable for colder conditions.
7. Be Roadside Ready
Breakdowns are more common in winter. Keep a basic emergency kit in your car that includes:
- Jumper cables
- A flashlight
- A blanket or warm jacket
- Reflective triangle and first aid kit
Even a short wait for help can feel much longer in the cold.
Don’t Wait – Winterise Your Car Now
Taking the time to prepare your vehicle for the colder months can save you time, money, and hassle down the line. Whether it’s replacing worn-out wiper blades or testing your battery, small actions now can prevent big problems later.
For more expert advice and seasonal motoring tips, check out these articles from the Automobile Association and DEKRA Auto.
