Winter Car Care Tips for Queensland Drivers
While our state may not experience the icy blasts of those down in the south of Aus, or in other colder countries, these cooler months still pose unique challenges for your vehicle. From foggy mornings in Kallangur to dewy drives along the Gold Coast, winter can affect how your car performs—and how safe it is on the road.
Here are some essential winter car care tips specifically for Queenslanders:
1. Battery Check – Don’t Get Caught Out
Cooler temperatures can slow your battery’s chemical reactions, which is why more people report battery issues in winter—even in mild climates. If your car’s battery is more than three years old, consider having it tested. Look out for slow engine cranks, dim headlights, or any signs of electrical strain.
Tip: We offer free battery testing with a free printed report, it takes 5 minutes and could save you a lot more!
2. Keep Tyres in Top Shape
Queensland’s fluctuating temperatures (cool mornings and warm afternoons) can cause tyre pressure to drop slightly overnight. Low tyre pressure can affect handling, fuel economy, and tyre wear.
Tip: Check your tyre pressure regularly and keep it at the recommended level. Don’t forget the spare!
3. Check Windscreen Wipers and Washers
Dry weather for most of the year can cause wiper blades to crack or stiffen. When winter’s dew, drizzle, or road spray hits, ineffective wipers can turn your commute into a visibility nightmare.
Tip: get your wiper blades replaced if they streak or squeak, and keep your window wash battle topped up.
4. Demisting Made Easy
Cooler mornings mean fogged-up windscreens are common. A working air conditioner is actually essential in winter—using the A/C with heat helps dry out the air and clear fog quickly.
Tip: Run your A/C for at least 10 minutes a week during winter to keep the system lubricated and prevent mould buildup.
5. Lights On, Safety Up
With shorter daylight hours and more cloudy mornings, proper lighting becomes more important. Check all exterior lights (headlights, brake lights, indicators, reverse lights) to make sure they're clean and working.
Tip: Have dull or blown bulbs replaced as soon as possible. If your headlights are clouded, we also offer a fantastic polishing service
6. Watch for Wildlife and Wet Roads
Cooler months mean more active wildlife near roads, especially in regional areas like the Scenic Rim or hinterlands. Morning dew can also make roads slippery.
Tip: Slow down on winding or shaded roads and be extra cautious at dawn and dusk.
7. Book a Winter Service
Even if you’re not heading on a winter getaway through the up to Hervey Bay, a pre-winter service ensures your car is in good shape. On a service, as well as changing your oil, we also inspect:
Brakes and brake fluid
Coolant and radiator system
Heating and ventilation systems
Drive Smart This Winter
Queensland winters might be gentle compared to Victoria or Tasmania, but your car still needs some TLC. Taking a little time now can prevent breakdowns, boost fuel economy, and keep you safer on the road.
Stay warm, stay safe—and happy motoring this winter!