OVL Lease Blog

Our last blog shared how to care for your electric car in the cold weather. Now it's time for us to share tips for your petrol / diesel vehicle.

Winter weather can be harsh on vehicles, and it's important to perform regular maintenance to keep your car running smoothly and ensure safety during colder months. Here are some essential car maintenance tips for the winter:

• Check the Battery:
• Cold weather can be tough on car batteries. Ensure that your battery is in good condition, and if it's more than a few years old, consider having it tested or replaced.

• Inspect the Antifreeze/Coolant:
• Make sure the coolant in your radiator is a 50/50 mix of antifreeze and water. This mixture helps prevent the coolant from freezing in cold temperatures.

• Check the Engine Oil:
• Cold weather can affect the viscosity of engine oil. Use the oil viscosity recommended by your car's manufacturer for winter conditions.

• Examine the Tyres:
• Check tyre pressure regularly and keep them properly inflated. Cold temperatures can cause tyre pressure to drop. Consider using winter tires for improved traction on snow and ice.

• Inspect the Brakes:
• Ensure that your brakes are in good condition. If you notice any issues such as squeaking or reduced braking performance, have them checked by a professional.

• Windscreen Wipers and Washer Fluid:
• Replace worn-out  wipers and fill up the washer fluid reservoir with a winter-grade solution that won't freeze.

• Check the Lights:
• Check all exterior lights are working properly, including headlights, brake lights, turn signals, and hazards. Winter days are shorter, so good visibility is crucial.

• Inspect the Exhaust System:
• Check for leaks in the exhaust system, as snow and ice can amplify the risk of carbon monoxide entering the vehicle.

• Test the Heater and Defroster:
• Make sure your car's heater and defroster are working efficiently to keep you warm and maintain good visibility.

• Inspect Belts and Hoses:
• Cold temperatures can make belts and hoses more brittle. Inspect them for signs of wear and replace as needed.

• Battery Terminals and Cables:
• Clean the battery terminals and cable ends to ensure a good electrical connection. Consider using a corrosion inhibitor to protect against corrosion.

• Carry an Emergency Kit:
• Keep an emergency kit in your car with items like a blanket, flashlight, extra gloves, a shovel, water and snacks.

• Check the 4WD or AWD System (if applicable):
• If your car has a 4WD (four-wheel drive) or AWD (all-wheel drive) system, make sure it's working properly, especially if you anticipate driving in snowy or icy conditions.

• Keep your fuel topped up 
• Try to keep your tank at least half full during the winter. This helps prevent the fuel line from freezing and provides a margin of safety in case you get stranded.

By following these winter car maintenance tips, you can help ensure that your vehicle is prepared for the challenges of colder weather, reducing the risk of breakdowns and enhancing overall safety on the road.

Taking care of your electric car in winter is important to ensure optimal performance and efficiency. Here are some tips to help you look after your electric car during the winter months:

• Battery Maintenance:

  • Keep your battery charged. Cold temperatures can reduce the overall range of your electric vehicle (EV), so make sure to keep the battery charged to a sufficient level.
  • If possible, park your electric car in a garage or other shelter to help keep the battery warmer.

• Preconditioning:

  • Many electric cars have a pre-conditioning feature that allows you to warm up the car while it's still plugged in. This helps in maintaining the battery temperature and also ensures a comfortable cabin temperature when you start driving.

• Tire Maintenance:

  • Check tire pressure regularly, as cold temperatures can cause tire pressure to drop. Maintaining the correct tire pressure is essential for both safety and efficiency.
  • Consider using winter tires for better traction on snow and ice.

• Cabin Comfort:

  • Preheat the interior of your car while it's still connected to the charger to avoid using the battery for heating, which can reduce your overall range.
  • Use the heated seats and steering wheel instead of relying solely on the cabin heater, as these use less energy.

• Fluids and Lubricants:

  • Ensure that all fluids, such as coolant and windshield washer fluid, are at appropriate levels. Some electric vehicles use a coolant system to regulate battery temperature.
  • Check and replace any fluids that may be affected by cold temperatures.

• Charging Considerations:

  • Be aware that extreme cold can slow down the charging process. If possible, park your car in a warmer environment when charging.
  • Keep the charging port clear of snow and ice to ensure a good connection.

• Regenerative Braking:

  • Understand how regenerative braking works in cold weather. Some electric cars may have reduced regenerative braking capabilities in low temperatures.

• Drive Carefully:

  • Winter conditions can be challenging, so drive carefully and be mindful of slippery roads. Use the appropriate driving mode for winter conditions if your electric car has one.

• Emergency Kit:

  • Keep an emergency kit in your car with items like a blanket, flashlight, portable charger, and other necessities in case you encounter unexpected issues during winter driving.

• Stay Informed:

  • Keep an eye on weather forecasts and plan your trips accordingly. If severe weather is expected, it's a good idea to stay updated on road conditions.

By following these tips, you can help ensure that your electric car performs well during the winter months and that you stay safe on the road.

Check out our electric vehicle leasing offers including in stock vehicles here: https://www.ovl.co.uk/carleasedeals/in-stock/all-models/Electric/0/