Buying a used car this autumn? Winter checklist

Are winter tyres included?

A second set of wheels is worth a fair amount. Ask whether it is included and what condition it is in.

Tread depth and age

Measure the tread depth and read the DOT code on the sidewall – the last four digits show the week and year it was made. Old rubber grips worse even with good tread.

Local rules

Check the winter tyre rules where you live.

Sills, wheel arches and underbody

Road salt speeds up rust. Look closely at the sills, wheel arch edges and underbody.

Brake lines

Rusty brake lines are a safety risk. Ask to see them from underneath if you can.

Ask the seller not to warm the car up

A cold engine tells you more. Ask the seller not to start the car before you arrive.

Listen to the start

A slow start, rough idle or unusual noises in the cold can point to a weak battery or engine trouble.

Battery age

A battery often lasts 4–6 years. Ask when it was last replaced or check the date on it.

Heater, fan and defroster

Check that the heater gets hot, the fan works on every setting and the windows clear.

Rear window heating and wipers

Test the rear window heating, wiper blades and washer fluid.

All lights

Walk around the car and check every light – it gets dark early in winter.

Heater and cable

If the car has an engine block heater, check that it works and that the cable comes with the car.

Fogging windows and wet carpets

Heavy fogging inside or damp carpets can point to a leak.

Door and boot seals

Check that the seals are intact and that there is no water in the boot.

Transfer case / Haldex service

If the car is all-wheel drive, ask whether the transfer case or Haldex coupling has been serviced on schedule.

Range in the cold

Range drops in cold weather. Leave a margin for your usual trips.

Heat pump and pre-conditioning

Ask whether the car has a heat pump and can be pre-conditioned – it affects comfort and range.

Battery health

Ask for a battery health report if possible.