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❄️ 🌧️ Winter Driving Alert: Essential Van Checks to Keep Your Business Moving ❄️ 🌧️
As winter approaches, ensuring your van is properly prepared for the inevitable cold, wet and icy UK weather conditions is crucial in keeping you safe on the roads.
Regardless of whether it’s a business or personal van, no matter the trade, every user should consider these safety checks to be accountable for their own safety on the road.
At Vanaways, we want to make sure your van stays in top condition, no matter how harsh the weather gets. Wet weather, icy mornings, and darker days can quickly turn minor issues into breakdowns that disrupt your business.
Here are some essential checks we recommend keeping your van running smoothly alongside your schedule throughout the winter months.
If you’re managing a fleet of vans for your business, it is especially important to take accountability for the safety and reliability of every vehicle. Make sure that your van is equipped and fully prepared for winter conditions before it hits the road, and ensure your drivers are aware of how to handle adverse weather conditions before setting off.
Regular checks will reduce downtime, prevent costly repairs, and ensure that your workers can focus on their tasks without worrying about their vehicle breaking down. Your commitment to safety is essential – not only to protect your team but also to keep your operations running smoothly through the colder months.
🛠️ Here are Vanaways Top Winter Van Checks:
Tyres
Your tyres are your first line of defence on slippery roads, so it is essential to ensure they have enough tread for proper grip. If your tyres are worn, consider upgrading your fleet / van to winter tyres for optimal performance. If you’re using all-season tyres, check that the tread is still within safe limits. Check for at least 3mm of tread, maintain correct pressures, and look for cracks or bulges. Good tyres are essential for grip on wet, icy roads.
Tyre pressure:
- Cold temperatures cause tyre pressure to drop, which can affect performance and fuel efficiency. Make sure to check your tyre pressure regularly, especially prior to longer journeys, to avoid any potential issues
Tip: If you are unsure if the tyres on your van meet the legal minimum standard then there are 3 simple methods you can use to check the tread depth:
- Perform the 20p test
- Inspect the wear indicator on the tyre (if fitted)
- Check the tyre tread with a depth gauge
Visibility – Wipers, Lights & Indicators
Replace worn wiper blades, clean all glass surfaces including windscreens inside and out, and check headlights, brake lights, and indicators are fully operational for darker mornings and evenings.
- Wiper blades: Clear vision is essential during the winter months, so inspect your wiper blades for any signs of damage or wear. If they’re leaving streaks or not clearing the screen properly, it’s time for new ones.
- Check all lights: With shorter daylight hours and unpredictable weather, visibility is key. Ensure your headlights, brake lights, turn signals, and hazard lights are all functioning correctly.
- Replace bulbs as needed: Dim or broken bulbs can be hazardous in winter conditions. If any lights are out, replace them before the bad weather hits.
Battery Health
Cold weather can reduce battery performance by up to 50%. Test the battery, clean the terminals, and replace if necessary to avoid early-morning starting issues.
- Battery performance: Winter weather can take a toll on your van’s battery. Cold temperatures can reduce battery power, so if your van’s battery is old or showing signs of weakness, we recommend replacing it before the cold sets in.
- Check battery terminals: Corrosion at the battery terminals can lead to poor connections. Clean off any corrosion and ensure connections are tight
Fluids – Coolants & Antifreeze
Top up coolant, engine oil and winter-grade screenwash to prevent freezing.
- Coolant levels: The last thing you want is for your engine to freeze in sub-zero temperatures. Make sure your van’s coolant is topped up and the mix is correct – typically a 50/50 blend of antifreeze and water
- Freezing point: Ensure the coolant’s freezing point matches the expected winter temperatures in your area to avoid any engine damage
Heating & Demisters
Make sure your heater and windscreen demister are working – clear visibility is critical for safety and driver comfort.
- Test your heater: You’ll want your heating system to work efficiently to keep you warm and defrost your windows. Make sure the system is blowing warm air and that the fan is working at full capacity.
- Check the defroster: A good defroster is critical for clearing fog and ice from your windows to maintain visibility. Ensure your defroster is functioning properly.
Brake Performance
Inspect brake pads, discs, and handbrake efficiency. Stopping distances increase on icy roads.
- Brake checks: Winter conditions can increase stopping distances, to make sure your brakes are up to the task. Check the pads and discs for wear and tear, and ensure the fluid levels are correct.
- Brake fluid: If your brake fluid is low or old, now is the time to get it changed for maximum braking efficiency.
Bodywork & Underside
Regularly wash the van’s underside to remove winter road salt and prevent accelerated corrosion.
Emergency Preparedness
Keep a torch, blanket, ice scraper, hi-vis vest, first aid kit, and phone charger in the van – especially for long journeys or remote routes.
💡 Why It Matters
Completing these checks reduces the risk of breakdowns, improves road safety, keeps your business moving and saves you time and money in the long run.
“Preventative maintenance is one of the best investments you can make during the winter months,” advised Chris Jakeways, Managing Director at Vanaways.
“It keeps your vehicles roadworthy, your drivers safe, and your business on schedule.” He added.
At Vanaways, we’re committed to helping you keep your van in top shape, supporting your business to stay on the road all year round. Take responsibility this and follow these winter checks to ensure your van is ready to handle whatever the season throws at it.
If you’re in need of an upgrade to your van fleet for the winter months, get in touch with our van specialists – we’re here to help pair you with the right vehicle.
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