As temperatures drop and winter takes hold, ensuring your van is in top condition becomes essential. Harsh weather can significantly impact vehicle performance, safety, and reliability, making regular maintenance more important than ever.
At Steadplan, we understand the unique demands winter places on vans and why proper care is essential. In this blog, we’ll explain why winter maintenance is so important for van owners and talk you through some key checks you can perform to prepare for the change in conditions.
Vans are the backbone of many British businesses, providing transportation for goods, tools, and people. A breakdown during winter isn’t just inconvenient – it can disrupt operations, cause delays, and incur costly repairs. Additionally, icy roads and freezing conditions increase the risk of accidents, so a well-maintained van is vital for safety.
A winter maintenance check package can help prevent issues before they arise, ensuring your van remains reliable even in the harshest conditions.
Here’s a comprehensive list of essential maintenance tasks every van owner should perform and why they are essential:
Cold weather can weaken a van’s battery, making it harder to start. Test your battery’s voltage and inspect for signs of wear or corrosion. If it’s older than three years, consider replacing it to avoid unexpected failures.
Winter roads demand proper traction. Check that your tyres have a tread depth of at least 3mm and are free of damage. Consider switching to winter tyres for better grip on icy or snowy roads.
Antifreeze prevents the engine from freezing in low temperatures. Ensure your coolant levels are sufficient and that the antifreeze mixture is balanced for winter conditions.
Visibility is critical in winter. Replace worn-out wiper blades and top up washer fluid with a winter-grade solution to prevent freezing.
Shorter daylight hours and poor weather mean lights are used more frequently. Check all lights and indicators for proper functioning to ensure you’re visible to other drivers.
Brakes are vital in slippery conditions. Inspect brake pads, discs, and fluid levels, addressing any wear or performance issues immediately.
A working heater and defroster are non-negotiable in winter. Ensure these systems are operating correctly to maintain cabin comfort and clear windows.
Cold weather can thicken engine oil, reducing efficiency. Ensure regular oil changes are performed in line with manufacturer recommended intervals for better performance and engine protection.
Equip your van with an emergency kit that includes essentials like a shovel, flashlight, blanket, and first-aid supplies. These can be lifesavers in case of a breakdown.
Investing in a Winter Health Check for your van offers several advantages:
Book Your Winter Maintenance Check Package with Steadplan
At Steadplan, we specialise in keeping vans in peak condition all year-round. With our van maintenance service, we combine the best technicians with cutting-edge equipment in our state-of-the-art workshops to quickly identify and rectify mechanical faults and get you back on the road.
Get in touch to book your Winter Maintenance Check Package or click here to learn more about our van maintenance services