The top 5 winter car faults costing UK drivers their money & safety

As icy weather grips the UK, drivers are more prone to experiencing vehicle issues that could lead to costly repairs or, worse, safety risks. According to reports from users of Carly OBD scanners, there are five issues that rear their ugly heads in the colder weather.

UK Country Manager at vehicle diagnostics company Carly, Daniel Meeghan, has taken us through these most common faults affecting vehicles during the colder months and shares his tips for avoiding these hazards.

Watch Out!: Parking Sensor Faults

Winter weather can wreak havoc on parking sensors, or the Park Distance Control (PDC) system. Snow, ice, or even moisture can obstruct sensors, leading to false alerts or a lack of warning altogether. Without accurate proximity alerts, drivers face a higher risk of collisions when parking.

Daniel’s advice: “Most systems emit a short tone when the car is in reverse to indicate they are active. If there is no tone or a continuous tone, the system might not be working, and drivers should be extra cautious. If the error persists, a reset or recalibration may be needed.”

False Starts: Glow Plug Issues

Glow plugs, which warm the engine for easier starts in the cold, can wear out faster in winter due to the added strain. Failed glow plugs can cause starting difficulties, misfires, excess smoke, and increased fuel consumption.

Daniel’s advice: “To prevent issues, follow your car’s service schedule. Carly’s OBD scanner can help monitor faults at home. In cold weather, turn the key to the 'on' position and wait for the glow plug light to turn off before starting. Parking in a garage overnight can reduce strain on the plugs during winter.”

Stay in Control: Traction Control Issues

Cold weather can interfere with the traction control system by affecting the wheel speed sensors. If the system fails, drivers may notice instability on slippery surfaces, potentially leading to skidding or delayed handling, especially on icy roads.

Daniel’s advice: “Keep your tyres properly inflated and ensure they have enough tread. Worn tyres or incorrect inflation can affect traction control. If you notice instability or warnings, get the sensors checked immediately.”

Costly Repairs: Water Pump Failure

Low temperatures can cause water pump seals to crack, leading to coolant leaks. Cold weather also thickens coolant, making it harder for the pump to circulate it effectively. This can cause engine overheating, breakdowns, and even engine damage if not addressed.

Daniel’s advice: “Inspect the water pump and drive belts for visible damage. Check the temperature of the water hoses—if the lower hoses are hot and the upper hoses are cold, coolant is not circulating. If the issue persists, consult a mechanic to ensure proper engine cooling.”

Breakdowns: Battery Undervoltage

Cold weather slows the chemical reactions in car batteries, causing them to produce less voltage. This can lead to dim or flickering lights, difficulty starting, and malfunctioning electrical components. Prolonged undervoltage can damage the battery and critical safety functions like airbags and door locks.

Daniel’s advice: “Check that the battery terminals are clean and securely connected, as loose or corroded connections can cause voltage drops. If the battery is low, it may need recharging or replacement. If the problem continues, consult a mechanic or garage to determine if the battery needs replacing.”

By staying vigilant and following Daniel’s advice, UK drivers can reduce the risk of winter car faults and ensure safer journeys. Regular vehicle checks and timely maintenance are essential to avoid costly repairs and keep you safe on the road during the cold months ahead. If you want to invest in an OBD scanner to keep an eye on issues hiding under the bonnet, visit www.mycarly.com.