Post Winter Car Checks Every Portsmouth Driver Should Do Before Spring

Winter puts your car under more strain than most drivers realise. Cold mornings, persistent rain, coastal air and stop start commuting around Portsmouth all contribute to gradual wear that often goes unnoticed. As we move into February, it’s a sensible time to make sure your vehicle is safe, reliable and ready for the months ahead. At Smile Servicing, preventative maintenance is central to what we do – and these simple checks can help you avoid unexpected problems later on.

1.) Check Your Tyres for Winter Wear

Tyres face the harshest conditions in colder months. Low temperatures reduce pressure and rough, wet roads increase wear. Look for:

• Low tread depth or uneven wear
• Cuts, bulges or cracks
• Underinflation on any corner
• The condition of your spare

Healthy tyres support better handling, braking and fuel economy as conditions change into spring.

2.) Assess Your Suspension After Pothole Season

Road surfaces often deteriorate over winter. Repeated contact with potholes can affect ride comfort and control without obvious signs at first. Watch for:

• Knocking over bumps
• Vibrations through the steering wheel
• The vehicle drifting to one side
• A heavier or looser steering feel

If anything feels different from normal, an inspection now prevents issues from escalating.

3.) Test Your Battery’s Health

Cold weather reduces battery performance and short, frequent journeys stop it fully recharging. Many failures happen at the end of winter. Signs to note:

• Slow engine turnover
• Dim headlights at idle
• Clicking during start up
• Electrical features behaving erratically

A quick battery test can prevent an inconvenient non‑start.

4.) Review Your Brake Performance

Brakes work harder through winter due to wet surfaces, salt and frequent stopping. Small changes can indicate wear developing underneath. Look for:

• Squeaking or grinding
• A softer or firmer pedal feel than usual
• Pulsation underfoot
• Longer stopping distances

Early checks keep braking confident and consistent into spring.

5.) Ensure Clear Visibility

Lingering rainfall, low sunlight and misty mornings make visibility a priority.

Check:

• Wiper blades for smearing or juddering
• Screen wash level (use winter formula until temperatures stabilise)
• Windscreen for chips or cracks
• Heaters and demisters working effectively

Clear vision makes every journey safer and less tiring.

6.) Top Up Essential Fluids

Fluid levels naturally drop over winter. Maintaining them supports engine health and smooth operation. Review:

• Engine oil
• Coolant and antifreeze balance
• Brake fluid
• Power steering fluid
• Screen wash

These quick checks help prevent avoidable problems as temperatures rise.

7.) Plan Ahead for Your Spring MOT or Service

Spring is a busy period for MOTs and servicing in Portsmouth. Booking early secures a convenient time and gives you space to resolve any winter‑related wear. If you’re unsure when your MOT is due, our team can confirm your date and advise on the best next step.

Ready to Book?

We aim to make car care simple, transparent and reliable. If you’d like a post‑winter health check, an MOT or a service, we’re ready to help.

• Book online 24/7 for an instant price and a time that suits you
• Ask about courtesy cars and weekday collection & delivery within 10 miles
• We’ll explain any findings clearly and only proceed with work you approve

Book your appointment today and start spring with a car you can rely on.