Winter Car Checks: Get Your Vehicle Ready for Cold Weather in Essex

Winter's on its way, and the colder months can be tough on your car. At Wickford Mot & Service centre, we see a surge in breakdowns and issues every winter that could easily have been prevented with a few simple checks.

Whether you're commuting through Wickford, Basildon, or across Essex, here's how to make sure your car is ready for whatever winter throws at it.

1. Check Your Battery

Car batteries hate the cold. In fact, battery failures are one of the most common winter breakdowns. If your battery is over 5 years old, it's worth getting it tested now – we can check it for free when you pop in.

Signs your battery might be struggling:

• Slow engine cranking when you start the car
• Dim headlights
• Dashboard warning light

2. Test Your Antifreeze

Your coolant should contain enough antifreeze to protect your engine down to at least -15°C. Too little antifreeze and your engine could freeze or overheat.

We can check your coolant concentration during a service or pre-winter check.

3. Replace Worn Wiper Blades

Winter means rain, fog, and frost. If your wipers are leaving streaks or juddering across the screen, replace them now. Good visibility isn't just safer – it's essential for your MOT too.

Don't forget to top up your screenwash with a winter formula that won't freeze.

4. Check Tyre Tread and Pressure

Wet and icy roads demand good tyres. Remember the 20p test – if you can see the outer band of the coin when placed in the tread, your tyres need replacing.

Cold weather also reduces tyre pressure, so check and adjust it every couple of weeks.

5. Keep Your Fuel Tank Above Half Full

Running low on fuel in winter isn't just inconvenient – it can cause condensation in your tank, which may lead to fuel line freezing. Keep your tank at least half full during the colder months.

6. Test Your Heating and Demisting

A working heater and demister aren't just about comfort – they're safety essentials. If your car takes ages to warm up or your demister isn't clearing the screen properly, get it checked.

7. Pack a Winter Emergency Kit

Keep these items in your boot just in case:

• Ice scraper and de-icer
• Jumper cables
• Torch
• Blanket
• Phone charger

Book Your Winter Car Check in Wickford

Don't wait for a breakdown to happen. Pop into Wickford Mot & Service centre for a quick winter health check, or book your next MOT or service while you're thinking about it.

Call us on 01268 906862 or book online – we're here to keep you moving safely all winter long.

How to Prepare Your Car for Its MOT Test in Wickford

If your MOT test is coming up, a little preparation can save you time, money, and stress. At Wickford MOT Centre, we've tested thousands of vehicles across Wickford and Essex, and we see the same small issues causing fails time and time again.

Here's a simple checklist to help you get your car ready before bringing it to us for your MOT in Wickford.

1. Check Your Lights

Over 30% of MOT failures are down to faulty lights. Walk around your car and test:

• Headlights (full beam and dipped)
• Brake lights
• Indicators
• Number plate lights

A quick bulb replacement could mean the difference between a pass and a fail.

2. Inspect Your Tyres

Your tyres must have at least 1.6mm tread depth across the central ¾ of the tyre. Use a 20p coin test – if the border of the coin is visible, your tyres are too worn.

Also check for:

• Cuts, bulges, or cracks
• Correct tyre pressure (check your handbook or inside the driver's door)

3. Top Up Fluids

Low levels of essential fluids can cause an MOT fail or advisory. Make sure you check and top up:

• Engine oil
• Brake fluid
• Screenwash
• Coolant

4. Test Your Brakes

Your brakes should feel firm and responsive. If the pedal feels spongy or you hear grinding noises, book a brake check before your MOT.

5. Keep It Clean

It sounds simple, but a dirty car inside and out (especially the number plates, mirrors and windscreen) can cause unnecessary MOT issues.

6. Secure Seats & Seatbelts

Check that:

• All seatbelts click in and retract properly
• No visible damage to belts
• Seats are securely fitted

7. Don't Ignore Warning Lights

If you have a dashboard warning light on (engine management, ABS, airbags etc.), it's best to get a diagnostic check before your MOT. We can help fix the issue and save you a fail.

Book Your MOT in Wickford Today

At Wickford MOT Centre, we make the MOT process quick, easy and affordable. Book online in just a few clicks, or call us on 01268 906862 to schedule your test.

👉 Book Your MOT Online Now

Stay safe on the roads, and let us take the stress out of your MOT.