Winter weather may make driving harder for many people. Cold temperatures, ice, snow, heavy rain, fog, and dark mornings may all affect how safe it feels to be on the road.
Even short journeys may take longer in winter. Cars may take longer to stop. Breakdowns may also be more common.
This page explains simple winter driving tips in very clear language. It focuses on basic checks and small steps that may help reduce risk in colder months.
Check your tyres before winter starts
Your tyres are the only part of the car that touch the road.
In winter, tyres may struggle to grip.
- Worn tyres may skid more easily
- Low tread may reduce grip
- Cold air may lower tyre pressure
UK law requires tyres to have at least 1.6mm of tread.
Cold weather may also affect pressure. Knowing how tyre pressure is checked may help tyres work as expected.
In places where snow is common, some drivers use winter tyres.
Checking your brakes before winter
Brakes are used more in winter.
Wet or icy roads may increase stopping distance.
- Worn brakes may reduce control
- Noises may signal a problem
Brake checks are often part of routine car servicing.
Problems may be easier to fix before winter starts.
Make sure your windscreen washer fluid is suitable for winter
In cold weather, plain water may freeze.
- Washers may stop working
- The windscreen may stay dirty
Screen wash made for cold weather may help.
A clear windscreen helps you see the road.
Turn off automatic wipers before starting the engine
Some cars have automatic wipers.
- They may switch on when the engine starts
- In winter, wipers may be frozen to the glass
This may damage the wipers.
Turning the automatic setting off first may help prevent this.
Clear ice and snow from all windows
All windows and mirrors should be clear before driving.
- Ice may block your view
- Snow may reduce vision
Clearing all glass may help keep you and others safe.
Remove snow from the roof of the car
Snow left on the roof may slide forward.
- It may block your windscreen
- It may fall onto another vehicle
If this causes danger, the driver may be held responsible.
Clearing snow safely
Snow should be removed before driving.
This includes more than just the windscreen.
- Windows and mirrors
- Lights and number plates
- The roof of the car
Loose snow may fall while driving.
This may affect you or other road users.
Plan ahead on cold mornings
Winter mornings often bring delays.
- Windscreens may be frozen
- Traffic may move more slowly
- Ice may take time to clear
A windscreen cover used overnight may help reduce ice.
Allowing extra time in the morning may help avoid rushing.
Avoid pouring hot water on the windscreen
Hot water and cold glass do not mix.
- The glass may crack
- Repairs may be costly
Lukewarm water may be less risky if de-icer is not available.
Carry a lock de-icer
Door locks may freeze in winter.
- Keys may not turn
- Doors may not open
A small lock de-icer may help.
Make sure all lights are clear and working
Lights may be covered by frost or dirt.
- This may make your car harder to see
- Lights may also look dim
Checking all lights before driving may help.
Keep enough fuel in cold weather
Cold weather may increase fuel use.
Traffic delays may also increase journey time.
- Engines may idle longer
- Heaters may be used more
Keeping more fuel in the tank may help avoid problems.
Do not leave your car unattended while idling
A running car may attract thieves.
- The risk may be higher if no one is nearby
- Rules may apply on public roads
The Highway Code rules for drivers cover stopping, engine use, and care for others.
Carry a simple winter emergency kit
Breakdowns may be harder to deal with in cold weather.
- Warm clothing or a blanket
- Water and snacks
- A torch
- A phone charger
These items may help while waiting for assistance.
Keep your phone charged
A charged phone may help you stay in contact.
An in-car charger may also help on longer trips.
Make sure your car is roadworthy
A safe car may help in bad weather.
- An MOT checks key parts
- Problems may be found early
An MOT may show if the car meets safety rules.
Adjust your driving style in winter
Cars behave differently in cold weather.
- Stopping takes longer
- Roads may be slippery
- Snow may be present
These steps may help:
- Drive more slowly
- Leave more space
- Use gentle steering and braking
- Check the weather before travel
Driving in snow and ice
Snow and ice can change how a car behaves.
Grip is often lower.
Stopping takes longer.
- Wheels may spin more easily
- Brakes may respond more slowly
- Steering may feel lighter
Small changes in speed may make a big difference.
Extra care may help reduce sudden movements.
Driving in heavy rain
Winter often brings heavy rain.
Rain may reduce grip and vision.
- Road spray may block your view
- Puddles may hide deep water
- Brakes may take longer to work
Standing water may cause tyres to lose contact with the road.
This is sometimes called aquaplaning.
Slower speeds may help reduce this risk.
Driving in fog
Fog is common in colder months.
It may reduce how far you can see.
- Other vehicles may appear suddenly
- Distances may be hard to judge
Using the correct lights may help others see you.
Clear windows and mirrors may also help.
Driving at night in winter
Winter days are shorter.
More journeys may happen in the dark.
- Glare from lights may be stronger
- Wet roads may reflect light
- Fatigue may be more common
Clean lights and windows may help improve vision.
Taking breaks on longer journeys may also help.
Winter driving at a glance
Winter brings extra challenges for drivers.
Cold, wet, and dark conditions may affect every journey.
Simple checks and small changes may help reduce risk.
Taking time to prepare may help keep journeys safer throughout winter.
Looking after your car throughout the year
Cars need care all year.
- Winter is harder on vehicles
- Checks before winter may help
Car checks in autumn may reduce problems later.
