Winter Car Check: 10 Point Checklist for Safe Driving [2025]

Winter puts your car to the test with cold temperatures, rain, slippery conditions, and short days. Every year, thousands of drivers are left stranded by winter-related problems such as a dead battery, faulty lights, or broken windshield wipers. Most problems can be prevented with a thorough winter check. This comprehensive guide provides a practical 10-point checklist for winterizing your car.

Point 1: Battery Testing and Charging

The car battery is the number one cause of winter breakdowns. Cold temperatures reduce battery capacity by 50 percent at -20 degrees Celsius. Check the battery voltage (at least 12.4V), have it load-tested, inspect the terminals for corrosion, and check the age. If the battery is weak, replace it preventatively (€60-€180). At Faay Auto Groep, we test your battery for free.

Point 2: Antifreeze and Coolant

Frozen coolant can crack the engine block. Check the coolant level, test the freezing point with a tester (at least -25 degrees Celsius), inspect for leaks, and check the color. If there's insufficient antifreeze, top up and replace old coolant (€60-€120).

Point 3: Check Tires

Good tires are a lifesaver in slippery conditions. Measure the tread depth (at least 3-4mm for winter), check tire pressure, inspect for damage, and check the age. Consider winter tires for better grip on snow and ice when temperatures are below 7 degrees Celsius.

Point 4: Lighting Testing

Good lighting is crucial during longer periods of darkness. Test all lights: headlights, taillights, brake lights, turn signals, and fog lights. Clean headlight lenses (frosted lenses emit 30 percent less light). Replace defective bulbs immediately.

Point 5: Change Windshield Wipers

Bad windshield wipers are dangerous in the rain. Check for streaks and poor contact, inspect the rubber for cracks, and check the washer jets. Replace wipers older than a year (€15-40). Top up the washer fluid with a winter mix down to -20 degrees Celsius (normal water freezes).

Point 6: Inspect Brakes

In slippery conditions, optimal brakes are essential. Check brake pad wear (at least 3-4mm), brake rotor condition, brake fluid level, and test brake performance. If in doubt, have a professional inspection. New brakes cost €200-400 for the front, but they are essential for safety.

Point 7: Engine Oil and Filters

Cold oil flows less freely. Check the oil level and condition, the last oil change (no more than one year ago), and the correct viscosity. Use synthetic oil with a low winter viscosity, such as 5W-30 or 0W-30, for better cold starting. An oil change costs €100-160.

Point 8: Heating System Testing

Working heating is both comfortable and safe. Test the heating on all settings, check the windshield defrost, test the rear window defroster, and inspect the cabin filter. If there are any problems, replacing the thermostat costs €150-€300, or replacing the cabin filter costs €30-€70.

Point 9: Treating Locks and Rubbers

Prevent frozen locks. Treat door seals with silicone spray, lubricate locks with graphite spray, test the central locking system, and check the spare key battery. Small steps prevent major frustration.

Point 10: Check Emergency Equipment

Prepare for emergencies. Check the spare tire pressure and condition, tools (jack, lug wrench), warning triangle and safety vest, first aid kit, and flashlight with batteries. Additional winter items: ice scraper and de-icer spray, blanket and warm clothing, jumper cables, shovel (in case of snow), and phone charger.

Frequently Asked Questions

When should I have a winter check done?

Schedule a winter check in October or early November, before the first frost. This gives you time to fix problems before the cold really sets in. Don't wait until December when everyone else is having their car checked, and you might have to wait for weeks. At Faay Auto Groep, you can have a complete winter check performed for €60-90, which includes all essential systems.

Can I do the winter check myself?

You can check many things yourself: testing lights, assessing windshield wipers, checking tire pressure, and checking fluid levels. However, for technical inspections such as battery load tests, brake inspections, and freeze point tests, you need professional equipment. A combination is ideal: performing basic checks yourself and having a technical inspection at a garage. This saves money and gives you insight into your car.

Are winter tires mandatory in the Netherlands?

No, the Netherlands does not require winter tires. However, they are strongly recommended at temperatures below 7 degrees Celsius and especially in snow or ice. If you're driving to winter sports resorts in Germany, Austria, or Switzerland, winter tires are often required in winter conditions. Fines range from €60 to €5,000 depending on the country and situation. All-season tires with M+S or snowflake markings usually meet international requirements.

How much does a complete winter check at the garage cost?

A professional winter check costs an average of €60-€120 and includes checking the battery, coolant, tires, lights, windshield wipers, brakes, fluids, and safety equipment. At Faay Auto Groep, we offer a winter check starting at €75, including a report and advice. Any repairs are additional, but you'll always receive a quote first. Compare this to roadside assistance costs of €100-€200, plus potential towing and repairs, so a preventative check is a sound investment.

Do I also need to do a winter check before the MOT?

A winter check is broader than the MOT. The MOT checks the legal minimum safety requirements: brakes, lights, tires (minimum 1.6mm), exhaust emissions, and steering. A winter check specifically addresses winter conditions: battery condition, antifreeze protection, windshield wiper quality, and the heating system. You can easily pass the MOT but still experience winter problems. Ideally, have your winter check in October and have your MOT when it's due. At Faay Auto Groep, both can be combined.

How often should I change coolant?

Coolant should be changed every 2-4 years, depending on the type. Traditional green coolant every 2 years, modern long-life (pink, orange) every 3-5 years. Check the service manual for specific recommendations. Old coolant loses its anti-corrosion properties and can cause engine damage. The freezing point often remains good, but the protective additives break down. If in doubt about the age, a preventative coolant change (€60-120) is cheaper than engine damage (€1,500-5,000).

Conclusion: Preparation Prevents Winter Bad Luck

A thorough winter check is the best investment for worry-free winter driving. By checking these 10 points, you can prevent most winter-related problems. Preventatively replacing a €120 battery is much cheaper than roadside assistance and a new battery in the cold. Working windshield wipers costing €25 can prevent an accident.

Schedule your winter check in October, not December. This gives you time to address any issues before it gets really cold and garages are overcrowded. The combination of performing basic checks yourself and a professional technical inspection will give you the assurance that your car is ready for winter.

Time for your winter check? Schedule an appointment now at Faay Auto Groep for a complete winter check, starting at €75. Our experienced mechanics will check all essential systems and advise you on necessary repairs. You'll receive a clear report and a transparent quote. Call 030 601 99 15 or book your winter check online. We're ready to assist you in Nieuwegein!