Cold mornings, dark evenings and wet roads mean more breakdowns in winter. A few minutes of preparation can save you hours at the roadside.
Check before the cold sets in
- Battery: batteries struggle in the cold. Slow starting or dim lights are early warnings.
- Tyres: check tread depth and pressures. Worn tyres are far more dangerous on wet or icy roads.
- Screenwash and coolant: top up with winter-strength fluids.
- Lights and wipers: replace blown bulbs and split wiper blades.
Keep a winter kit in the car
- Ice scraper and de-icer
- Warm coat, gloves, blanket and a hi-vis vest
- Torch, phone charger and power bank
- Water and snacks
- A shovel if snow is forecast
If you break down in winter
Get to a safe place, switch on hazards and, on a motorway or busy A-road, wait behind the barrier wrapped up warm. Do not sit in a car on the hard shoulder. Keep your phone charged and tell your recovery operator if you have children, elderly passengers or pets with you.
Plan your journeys
Check the weather and traffic before long trips on the M1, M69 or A46, and keep at least a quarter of a tank of fuel in case of delays.
We are open all winter
MWR Recovery runs 24/7 through winter, including Christmas and bank holidays. Call +44 7424 498454.
