Autumn car maintenance checklist

Autumn is here! Crisp air, golden leaves, and scenic drives. But alongside the beauty of the season comes rain, fog, and dropping temperatures, which can make driving tricky.

Getting your car ready for the season is key to staying safe and avoiding an inconvenient (and stressful) breakdown. A few simple checks can make all the difference, giving you confidence every time you hit the road.

Jump to:
Tyres
Battery
Visibility
Brakes
Little things
Ready for the road

Autumn car maintenance checklist

Here’s a simple checklist to make sure your car is ready for whatever autumn throws your way.

1. Check your tyres for grip and safety

Wet leaves and rain can make roads as slippery as ice. This is why having good tyre grip is essential for safe driving in autumn.

What to do:

• Check tread depth: Legally, your tyres need at least 1.6mm of tread in the UK, but for autumn and winter, aim for 3mm. Extra depth reduces the chances of skidding or aquaplaning. Use a 20p coin to check, if you can see the outer band when placed in the tread, it’s time for a replacement.
• Check tyre pressure: Cold temperatures can cause tyre pressure to drop, which affects handling, braking, and fuel efficiency. Use your car manual or the sticker inside your door to find the correct pressure, and adjust as needed.Worn or under-inflated tyres increase your risk of skidding, punctures, and even blowouts. Taking care of them now could save you from an unexpected breakdown later.

2. Test your car battery before it lets you down

Batteries work harder when it’s cold, powering your lights, wipers, and heaters. A battery that seemed fine in the summer could suddenly fail as temperatures drop.

What to do:

• Check its age: Most batteries last 3–5 years. If yours is older, it’s worth getting it tested to avoid any nasty surprises.
• Look for warning signs: If your car struggles to start or the battery light comes on, it might be time for a replacement.
• Clean corrosion: Check the terminals for a white powdery substance. If you see it, carefully clean it with a wire brush while wearing gloves and eye protection.

Batteries are one of the most common causes of breakdowns, but testing yours now can help you avoid being stranded on a chilly morning.

3. Make sure you can see clearly

Autumn weather means more rain, fog, frost and shorter days, so clear visibility is a must. Your wipers and lights are more important than ever.

What to do:

• Inspect wiper blades: If they’re cracked, split, or leaving streaks, it’s time for new ones. Replacing them is cheap and easy to do yourself.
• Top up screen wash: Use a quality screen wash instead of plain water—it’s better at clearing grime and won’t freeze as temperatures drop.
• Check all lights: Ask someone to help you check every light on your car, from headlights to brake lights. Replace any blown bulbs right away.

Clear visibility is essential for safe driving. Plus, faulty lights can lead to fines or penalty points, so it’s worth double-checking.

4. Give your brakes some attention

With wet roads and slippery leaves increasing stopping distances, your brakes need to be in top shape.

What to do:

• Feel the brakes: They should feel firm when pressed, not soft or spongy.
• Listen for noises: Squealing, grinding, or scraping sounds often mean the brake pads are worn and need replacing.
• Check brake fluid: Make sure the fluid level is between the minimum and maximum marks. If it’s low, have your system checked for leaks.

Brakes are your car’s most important safety feature. If something feels off, don’t ignore it—get it checked by a professional.

5. Don’t forget the little things

Check your antifreeze/coolant: This prevents your engine from overheating or freezing. Make sure the level is right and that it’s properly mixed for colder weather.
Pack an emergency kit: Keep a torch, warm blanket, high-vis jacket, snacks, water, and a fully charged power bank in your boot. You’ll thank yourself if you ever get stuck.

Ready for the road?

Breakdowns happen to even the most prepared drivers, so having reliable vehicle breakdown insurance is always a smart move. It’s your safety net if something unexpected happens, helping you get back on the road quickly and stress-free.

Here’s how to keep yourself covered:

• For life on UK roads
UK Breakdown Cover keeps you protected whether it’s the weekday commute or a last-minute weekend trip. Support is always close by.

• For adventures across Europe
European Breakdown Cover ensures that even on the other side of the Channel, help comes when you need it most.

• For households that share the wheel
Family Breakdown Cover gives everyone in your home the same peace of mind, with one simple policy covering multiple drivers and vehicles.

With the right cover in place, and a few simple seasonal checks, autumn driving becomes less about the worry and more about enjoying those crisp, scenic journeys.