Searches for common vehicle faults surge during the winter months, with queries about broken heaters, cars failing to start and faulty headlights increasing significantly as temperatures fall, according to new analysis by specialist motor trade insurance broker ChoiceQuote.
The analysis reveals a seasonal surge in searches for heating and demisting queries, led by a 56% increase in searches for “car heater not working” and a 34% increase in searches for “demister not working” between November and January.
Starting and battery failures also become significantly more prominent as temperatures fall. Searches for “car won’t start” increase on average by 46%, while queries for “how to jumpstart a car” increase by 34% and general “car battery issue” searches rise by 31%.
Visibility issues follow a similar trend, as the dark winter months draw in. Searches for “headlight bulb replacement” increase by 41%, while searches for “windscreen washer not working” and “windscreen wipers not clearing” increase by 39% and 30% respectively.
Searches for common winter vehicle problems
(% change calculated by comparing avg. search volume during Nov-Jan with the 24 month average monthly search volume)
Chris Galloway, Head of Trading at ChoiceQuote, comments:
“Many of the problems motorists encounter in winter don’t develop overnight. Batteries weaken gradually, wiper blades wear down and small windscreen chips can worsen quickly when temperatures drop. Carrying out a few basic checks now can help reduce the risk of a breakdown later in the season.”
10 vehicle checks to make before winter
ChoiceQuote has created a checklist of simple actions motorists can take before winter to help identify potential issues before they become more expensive breakdowns.
- Test your heating and demister
Don’t wait for the first freezing morning to discover that your heater isn’t working properly. Check that the heater produces warm air and that the demister can clear the windscreen effectively.
- Check your battery
Cold weather can put additional strain on a vehicle battery. Look out for warning signs such as slower engine cranking, difficulty starting or a battery that repeatedly loses charge.
- Test your headlights
Walk around the vehicle and check that headlights, brake lights, indicators and other exterior lights are working correctly. Replace failed bulbs promptly and make sure lenses are clean.
- Check your wipers
Worn or damaged wiper blades can reduce visibility in wet weather. Check that the blades clear the windscreen without leaving excessive streaks, juddering or squeaking.
- Top up your screen wash
Check the washer reservoir before temperatures fall and use an appropriate winter-grade screen wash. Make sure the washer jets are working and able to clear the windscreen effectively.
- Check your tyre pressures and tread
Check all four tyres when cold and inflate them to the manufacturer’s recommended pressure. At the same time, ensure tread depth remains above the legal minimum.
- Check coolant and antifreeze
Check the coolant level and make sure the vehicle has the correct antifreeze concentration recommended by the manufacturer. If the coolant level repeatedly drops, investigate the cause.
- Check the windscreen for damage
Look for chips or cracks before winter weather arrives as cracks can worsen quickly as temperatures fall and may affect visibility or MOT compliance.
- Inspect for corrosion or rust
Cold, wet roads can lead to corrosion. A quick check of the underside and wheel arches can catch problems while they are still minor.
- Keep an emergency kit in the car
Keep a basic winter breakdown kit in the car, including a torch, warm clothing or blanket, first-aid supplies, phone charger and reflective clothing in case of a breakdown.
