Christmas Car Care: Your Ultimate Guide for Stress-Free Festive Journeys
Make Every Christmas Journey Smooth and Safe
Busy roads, freezing temperatures, and a car packed with gifts can put extra strain on your vehicle. A few smart checks now will keep your festive plans on track and your family safe. That's why we make winter motoring simple with in-house MOT testing, Bosch diagnostics, and easy 24/7 online booking.
Why Winter Driving Needs Extra Care
Shorter days and colder weather challenge your car's battery, tyres, and visibility. Low temperatures reduce tyre pressure and can affect EV range, so a pre-journey check is essential.
Your Essential Winter Checklist
- Battery Health - Cold weather makes starting harder and increases electrical load for heaters and lights. If you've noticed sluggish starts or have an older battery, book a quick check before you travel. EV Tip: Expect reduced range and slower charging in very cold conditions. Precondition your EV while plugged in to warm the cabin and battery before setting off.
- Tyres: Tread and Pressure - Grip matters on wet or icy roads. The legal minimum tread depth is 1.6mm, but many experts recommend 3mm for better braking. Cold weather lowers tyre pressure—check and top up to your handbook levels.
- Fluids and Screenwash - Top up coolant, oil, and winter-grade screenwash. A 50% mix of quality screenwash helps prevent freezing.
- Lights and Wipers - Clean lenses, carry spare bulbs, and replace worn wipers. Always clear ice and snow from windows before driving.
- Brakes and General Inspection - Squeals, vibration, or pulling under braking? Book a brake check now to avoid holiday disruptions.
- Pack an Emergency Kit - Include an ice scraper, de-icer, torch, warm clothes, blanket, snacks, water, phone charger, and warning triangles.
- Plan Ahead - Check the weather, allow extra time, and keep your fuel level healthy for delays.
Extra Tips for EV Drivers
- Precondition while plugged in for better range and faster demisting.
- Use seat and wheel heaters instead of blasting cabin heat.
- Check tyre pressures regularly - cold weather increases rolling resistance.
- Factor in slower rapid charging with a cold battery.
Why Choose Smile Servicing for Your Festive Prep
- Local, independent garage in Portsmouth
- In-house MOT testing and Bosch diagnostic equipment
- Trust My Garage approved and HEVRA trained for EV servicing
- Book online 24/7—pay nothing until the work is done
Ready for a Stress-Free Christmas Journey?
Book your winter health check, service, or MOT online with us today to enjoy peace of mind and keep your festive plans running smoothly.