Winter Car Maintenance Tips for Somerset Drivers
Winter Car Maintenance Tips for Somerset DriversWinter weather in Somerset can be unpredictable. Heavy rain, icy patches, early sunsets and low temperatures all make driving more challenging for motorists in Clevedon, Congresbury and across North Somerset. When conditions are poor, it is essential to keep your vehicle in top working order so that you can drive with confidence and avoid unnecessary breakdowns.At Holders of Congresbury, we understand the challenges that local drivers face during the colder months. Whether you are commuting daily, heading to Bristol for work, or making school runs along rural roads, a little preparation can make a huge difference. From tyres and batteries to heating systems and MOT bookings, winter checks give you peace of mind when you need it most.
👉 Book your winter service today to keep your car ready for the season.
Why Winter Maintenance MattersEven a well-maintained car can struggle in cold weather if a few key checks are ignored. Wet roads, reduced daylight and falling temperatures all put additional strain on your vehicle. Batteries can lose power, tyre pressure can drop, and visibility can be reduced at exactly the wrong moment.Preventative maintenance is far more cost-effective than emergency repairs. A simple winter check can help you avoid roadside callouts, improve your vehicle's fuel efficiency, and keep your SEAT or other vehicle running smoothly throughout the colder months.Common Winter Issues
- Reduced tyre grip on wet or icy surfaces
Longer braking distances
Cold-start battery failures
Fogged or frozen windscreens
Low antifreeze or oil levels
These problems are avoidable with regular servicing and seasonal checks.
👉 Book a service or repair online at our Congresbury service centre.
1. Tyres: Your First Line of SafetyYour tyres are the only contact between your car and the road, so their condition is crucial in winter. Somerset's rural roads often experience standing water and ice patches, which make good traction essential.What to Look Out For
- Tread depth: The legal minimum tread depth is 1.6 mm, but replacing tyres at 3 mm or above gives better grip and reduces stopping distance on wet roads.
Tyre pressure: Cold temperatures lower tyre pressure, which can increase fuel consumption and reduce safety. Check your tyre pressure at least twice a month.
Tyre condition: Look for cracks, bulges or uneven wear, as these can become dangerous in low temperatures.
Winter or all-season tyres: These provide improved performance in cold and wet conditions and are ideal if you regularly travel on rural roads around Clevedon and Congresbury.
👉 View our servicing options to arrange a tyre check with our expert team.
2. Battery Health and Cold StartsCar batteries are more likely to fail in cold weather. A weak battery may still work fine in summer but struggle on a frosty morning. This is one of the most common causes of winter breakdowns across the UK.Signs Your Battery May Be Failing
- Slower engine turnover when starting
Dimming lights or flickering dashboard displays
Clicking sounds when turning the key
At Holders of Congresbury, we can carry out a full battery health check and replace it if needed. We only use genuine SEAT parts for SEAT vehicles and high-quality batteries for other makes.
👉 Book a battery check with our service department.
3. Visibility: Wipers, Lights and Heating SystemsClear visibility is essential for safe winter driving. Low sun angles, fog, condensation and wet weather make this one of the most important winter checks.Steps to Stay Safe
- Replace worn wiper blades so they clear the screen effectively.
Fill up with winter-grade washer fluid to avoid freezing.
Check that all headlights, brake lights, fog lights and indicators are working properly.
Test your car's heating and demisting systems so your windows stay clear.
It's also a good idea to keep a microfibre cloth in the car to quickly wipe away any internal condensation.
👉 Book your winter service online.
4. Fluids, Antifreeze and Engine ProtectionEngine fluids work harder in winter. Antifreeze is especially important, as it prevents your engine from freezing in sub-zero temperatures.
- Check coolant levels regularly.
Make sure antifreeze is at the correct concentration.
Keep an eye on oil, brake fluid and transmission fluid levels.
Top up screenwash with a winter-grade product.
Even simple maintenance steps like topping up fluids can prevent expensive repairs later on.
👉 Book a winter check with our service team in Congresbury.
5. Book Your MOT Early in Clevedon and CongresburyWinter is one of the busiest times of year for MOTs. Drivers in Somerset often find themselves stuck for availability in December and January. Booking early ensures that:
- You secure a time slot that suits your schedule.
You avoid the risk of driving without a valid MOT.
Any faults can be fixed before they turn into major issues.
Your vehicle remains legal and safe for winter journeys.
You can book your MOT at the same time as your service to save time and keep everything in one place.
6. SEAT Finance Options ExplainedWinter is also a popular time to upgrade to a newer or more reliable vehicle. At Holders of Congresbury, we offer flexible SEAT finance options designed to suit different budgets and driving styles.
- Personal Contract Purchase (PCP) is ideal if you like to change cars every few years. Monthly payments are lower, and at the end of the term you can return the vehicle, pay the balloon payment to keep it, or upgrade to a new model.
Hire Purchase (HP) is a straightforward way to spread the cost. Once all monthly payments are complete, you own the car outright.
Personal Contract Hire (PCH) is a leasing option with fixed monthly payments and no obligation to buy at the end. This is a popular choice for those who want predictable costs without long-term ownership.
👉 Explore SEAT finance options with our sales team.
7. Winter Driving EssentialsEven with good maintenance, unexpected situations can happen. Keeping a small winter emergency kit in your car can help you stay safe and comfortable.A Well-Prepared Kit Should Include
- Ice scraper and de-icer
Blanket, gloves and hat
First aid kit
Torch with spare batteries
Portable phone charger
High-visibility jacket
Jump leads or a compact booster pack
A small shovel if you live in rural areas
Drivers in Congresbury and Clevedon often face foggy or frosty mornings, so having these items to hand can make a real difference.8. Servicing and Warranty ProtectionRegular servicing is important at any time of year, but especially in winter. By keeping your car serviced by manufacturer-trained technicians using genuine SEAT parts, you can:
- Maintain your warranty
Protect your car's resale value
Improve fuel efficiency
Reduce the risk of winter breakdowns
At Holders of Congresbury, we offer trusted servicing for SEAT and other makes, with a local, personal approach.
👉 Book your service to stay on top of maintenance this winter.
9. Supporting Local Drivers in Clevedon and CongresburyWe have been supporting Somerset drivers for many years. Our experienced team understands the specific conditions of driving in North Somerset, from narrow rural lanes to foggy coastal mornings.Whether you need a simple winter check, an MOT, finance advice or a full vehicle upgrade, our aim is to make your driving experience safer and more comfortable.
👉 Visit Holders of Congresbury to get started.
FAQs
Q1: How often should I check my tyre pressure in winter?
A: Check every two weeks or whenever there is a sudden drop in temperature.
Q2: Do I need winter tyres in Somerset?
A: They are not required by law but are highly recommended for better grip on icy or wet roads.
Q3: When should I book my MOT?
A: Up to a month before your current certificate expires. Early bookings give you more choice of appointment times.
Q4: Which finance option suits me best?
A: PCP works well for those who want flexibility, HP for those who want ownership, and PCH for those who prefer fixed payments without buying.
Q5: What does a winter check include?
A: A tyre inspection, battery test, fluid top-ups, lighting checks and heating system checks to make sure your car is ready for the season.
Q6: Can I book a service and MOT together?
A: Yes. Many customers book both at the same time to save time and make sure everything is up to date.
Final ThoughtsWinter driving does not need to be stressful. By taking a proactive approach to maintenance, you can protect your vehicle, save money and drive with confidence through the colder months.From winter checks and MOTs to finance solutions and new car options, Holders of Congresbury is your trusted partner for motoring in Somerset.
👉 Book online today to get your vehicle winter-ready.