Driving home for Christmas? 7 Essential checks before you set off

Tyres – your first line of defence

Your tyres are the only part of the car that actually touch the road, so they’re a good place to start. Check that the tread depth is legal and in good condition – the minimum is 1.6mm, but in winter conditions anything closer to 3mm will give better grip.

It’s also important to check tyre pressures, especially if your car is fully loaded with passengers and luggage. Incorrect tyre pressures can affect handling, braking and fuel efficiency, particularly in cold weather when pressure naturally drops.

⁠Lights and visibility

With darker mornings and evenings, your lights are working harder at this time of year. Make sure all exterior lights are functioning properly, including headlights, brake lights, indicators and rear fog lights.

Don’t forget your windscreen wipers and washer fluid. Winter roads mean spray, grit and salt, and poor visibility can quickly become dangerous. Top up with proper screen wash (not water) to prevent freezing, and replace worn wiper blades if they’re smearing or squeaking.

Battery health

Car batteries are more likely to fail in cold weather, particularly if they’re already a few years old. If your engine has been slow to start recently, or you’ve noticed warning lights flickering, it’s worth getting the battery checked before a long journey.

Short trips, cold starts and heated features like screens and seats all put extra demand on your battery in winter, so prevention is far easier than dealing with a breakdown on Christmas Eve.

Brakes and fluids

Brakes should feel responsive and consistent. If you’ve noticed any grinding, squealing or pulling to one side, it’s best not to ignore it – especially when winter roads increase stopping distances.

Check key fluids too: engine oil, coolant and brake fluid should all be at the correct levels. Coolant is particularly important in cold temperatures, as it helps prevent the engine from freezing and overheating.

Plan for the unexpected

Even well-prepared cars can be delayed by traffic, weather or accidents at this time of year. Make sure you have essentials in the car just in case, including:

- A charged mobile phone and car charger

- Warm clothing or a blanket

- Water and snacks

- A torch

- Warning triangle and high-visibility jacket

If you’re travelling a long distance, plan your route in advance and allow extra time. Rushing rarely ends well on winter roads.

Check your MOT, tax and insurance

It sounds obvious, but it’s easy to forget. Make sure your MOT, vehicle tax and insurance are all valid before you travel, especially if you’re driving long distances or across the country. A quick check now avoids unnecessary stress later.

Listen to your car

If something doesn’t feel right – a new noise, a warning light, or a change in how the car drives – don’t ignore it. Small issues can quickly become bigger problems in cold conditions, and it’s always better to address them before a long journey.