Why Your Car Acts Funny in Winter (And What You Can Do About It)

Ever tried to start your car on a frosty winter morning and wondered why it sounds like it’s still half asleep? You’re not alone. Cold mornings, wet roads, and shorter days all have a real impact on how your car behaves.

At Tyre Shop Online, we’re all about helping Kiwis stay safe and confident on the road—so we’ve pulled together a smart, no-fuss guide to explain how to look after your car in winter. Whether you’re commuting in Auckland rain or cruising through snowy Central Plateau, a little winter car maintenance goes a long way.

Why Your Car Doesn’t Love the Cold (and What to Check)

Cars are like people—they don’t always function at their best when it’s freezing outside. During the winter months, you’ll likely notice:

• Sluggish starts in the morning
• Fogged-up windows
• Dimmer lights
• Windscreen wipers smearing instead of clearing

This isn’t your imagination—cold weather affects your battery, fluids, tyres, and visibility. But the good news? With a few quick checks and smart habits, you can beat the winter blues and keep things running smoothly.

Start With Your Battery – It’s the Most Common Winter Issue

In winter, your car’s battery has to work harder to crank the engine—and car batteries that are older or already weak tend to give up right when you need them most.

What to do:

• If your car is struggling to start or the interior lights look dim, check your battery or get it tested. Most batteries last around 3–5 years.
• Consider keeping jumper leads or a portable charger in your boot.

Bonus tip: Park in a garage or sheltered area when possible—it keeps the battery (and engine) just that bit warmer overnight.

Tyres Matter More Than You Think in Winter Conditions

Your tyres are critical in wet and icy road conditions, and they’re often overlooked. Low tread depth, incorrect air pressure, or worn wiper blades can all increase the chance of an accident.

What to do:

• Check your tyres regularly for visible wear and make sure your tread depth is well above the minimum 1.5mm.
• Keep an eye on your tyre pressure, as it can drop in cooler temps.
• If you’re heading to areas with frost, black ice, or snow, consider fitting high-performance all-season tyres for the conditions. Also, many people opt to carry snow chains for their tyres – easy to store in the boot and handy if you need them!

We’re always happy to recommend the right option based on your driving and location. Give us a bell!

Keep Your Vision Clear – Wipers, Washers & Lights

Driving in winter means reduced visibility more often—darker mornings, heavy rain, fog, and that classic NZ drizzle.

Your checklist:

• Replace your wiper blades if they’re streaky or noisy.
• Top up your windscreen wash with fluid that can handle cold temps.
• Make sure all your lights are working—headlights, brake lights, and indicators. It’s especially important to check the rear ones, as they get dirtier faster.

Pro tip: Keep an ice scraper in the glovebox for those early morning frosts, especially in inland or southern regions.

Winter Driving Isn’t the Same – Adjust to the Conditions

Even if your car is prepped, your driving style needs a winter update too. Cold, wet conditions make it harder to stop and easier to lose traction.

Smart winter habits:

• Always leave more space behind the car in front—at least 4 seconds instead of the usual 2. Not sure about the road rules? Check the NZ Transport Agency website for more information.
• Brake gently, especially on downhill or shaded roads.
• Take it easy on corners and drive smoothly to avoid skidding.

And remember the golden rule: drive to the conditions.

Don’t Forget the Little Things That Make a Big Difference

Heater & demister

Make sure these are working properly before the depths of winter.

Doors and locks

A quick spray of silicone lubricant around your driver’s door seals can stop it from freezing shut on frosty mornings.

Fuel

Try to keep at least a quarter tank of fuel—it helps reduce moisture in the system and keeps you covered in an emergency.

Prepare Your Car for Emergencies Too

No one expects to break down, but if you do, a small winter kit in your boot can be a lifesaver.

Your winter kit should include:

• A blanket
• A torch or headlamp
• Power bank/phone charger
• Bottled water and a snack
• First aid kit
• De-icer or scraper
• High-vis vest

It’s not just for snow trips—unexpected delays can happen anywhere, anytime.

Beat the Chill, Not the Bill

Looking after your vehicle during winter doesn’t have to be complicated or expensive—it’s about staying one step ahead of the weather. Regular checks on your battery, tyres, wipers, and lights will help you avoid problems before they start.

Not sure if your tyres are winter-ready or due for a replacement?

We offer quality tyres at sharp prices, delivered straight to your door anywhere in NZ — or to one of our trusted fitters if that’s easier for you.

Happy Motoring!