Vehicle Winter Checks Peterborough

With the temperature dropping and daylight hours shortening, winter is definitely fast approaching! With it comes the frost, rain and, occasionally, snow. All of these weather conditions make it more dangerous on the roads in Peterborough, and can also place serious strain on your vehicle’s vital components.

Did you know that one road accident happens every hour in snow, ice, floods, fog and darkness? This highlights the importance of maintaining your vehicle in the winter. During the colder months, it is our top priority to keep customers safe on the road. By offering thorough vehicle winter checks in Peterborough, we can help you avoid getting stuck outside in the cold.

Book Your Winter Check Today

Common signs your vehicle requires a winter check

Although we recommend that vehicle winter checks in Peterborough be done proactively, there are some signs that your car needs to be checked:

You have trouble starting your car: The cold puts additional strain on your vehicle’s battery, which is why it’s important to make sure that it is sufficiently charged to cope.

Streaks are appearing on your windscreen: Your visibility when driving is of utmost importance; if your wipers are failing to clear the screen effectively, it could be a sign that they need replacing.

Your car lights are not providing the correct visibility: Similarly to the wipers, your headlights are another high priority in winter with the reduced light. If any of your exterior bulbs are not working this is a critical fix for your safety.

Your engine is overheating: Despite the cold temperatures, your engine can easily overheat in winter if old coolant freezes or there are low fluid levels.

What do we cover in our winter vehicle checks?

To ensure that your vehicle is completely ready for the winter road conditions, we make sure that our winter checks are thorough. If any component does not meet the safety standards, we will discuss the issue with you immediately and provide clear, obligation-free advice.

Tyre conditions: We check your tread depth and pressure to ensure your handling, braking, and grip are safe on wet and icy roads.

Battery health test: We check your battery’s voltage and cranking power to ensure that your car will reliably start even on the coldest days.

Antifreeze/ coolant levels: We check your antifreeze and coolant levels to prevent your engine cooling system from freezing or overheating.

Engine oil levels: We ensure clean, correctly specified oil is circulating to protect your engine’s internal components from friction and wear.

Horn function: We confirm your horn is working correctly – a simple but essential safety feature for warning others in an emergency.

External lights check: With shorter daylight hours, we verify all headlights, brake lights, indicators, and fog lights are functional so you can see and be seen.

Wiper blades and screen washer: To ensure that the windscreen clears effectively.

Brake discs: Stopping distances can be up to 10 times longer in icy conditions, so having healthy brakes is vital.

Additional things you can do to prepare for driving in winter

Although our vehicle winter checks in Peterborough is a great place to start, there are a few other things to take into consideration that can make your winter journeys safer:

Plan your route: check for any collisions or diversions before setting off. That way, you won’t get a shock if you suddenly have to drive through an unfamiliar area.

Check the weather conditions: the Met Office gives weather warnings up to seven days in advance for any dangerous conditions and will advise on any weather warnings.

Check your insurance: double check what kind of cover you have on your insurance – are you covered should your car break down or if you’re involved in an accident?

Create an emergency kit to keep in your car: emergency kits could include a hazard warning triangle, de-icing equipment, warm clothes and a fully charged mobile phone.

Ensure your vehicle is taxed and your MOT is valid: tax and a valid MOT are vital as you are legally unable to drive without these.

Don’t leave it too late! Winter checks should be proactively booked to ensure your safety on the roads. Get in touch with our team today to book your car in.

Book Your Check Today 01733 788887

Why choose Vital Vehicle Care?

We are a friendly family-run business located in the heart of Peterborough and have 20 years’ experience in the industry. We’ve helped hundreds of local residents stay safe with winter checks on their vehicles over the years.

We pride ourselves on outstanding customer service and aftercare, offering a 12-month warranty on all our parts.

Opening Times:

Monday – 8:30am-6pm
Tuesday – 8:30am-6pm
Wednesday – 8:30am-6pm
Thursday – 8:30am-6pm
Friday – 8:30am-6pm
Saturday – 8:30am-1:00pm
Sunday – Closed

Frequently Asked Questions About Vehicle Winter Checks

What kind of vehicles do you work with?

We work on all kinds of vehicles and models, big and small. Get in touch, and we will get you booked in.

How far in advance should I book my car in?

You can book your vehicle at whatever time suits you best; however, we suggest doing it sooner rather than later to avoid missing out on a vital winter check.

How much does a vehicle winter check in Peterborough cost?

We pride ourselves on offering competitive pricing. Contact us today to receive an exact quote with no hidden extras.

What should I do if I break down during the winter?

Driving in wintry conditions can be very dangerous. If you find that you are unable to drive safely, pull over as soon as you can and put your hazard lights on. You may need to contact breakdown cover and even the police if you pose a risk to other drivers on the road.