Why Winter Vehicle Checks Matter
Winter in Kent can bring unpredictable conditions, heavy rain, icy roads, early sunsets, and even the occasional snowfall. These seasonal challenges make driving riskier, with accidents and breakdowns becoming more common in the colder months.
If you’re planning to hire a vehicle this winter, whether it’s a van for work or a car for family travel, preparation is essential. At Hire2You, we carry out regular maintenance and safety checks across our fleet, but it’s still important for every driver to carry out a few basic inspections before setting off.
Here are the five essential checks you should always perform before driving a hire vehicle this winter.For more detail on adapting your hire to the season, see our guide on seasonal van hire in Kent.
1. Tyres and Tread Depth
Your tyres are the only point of contact between your vehicle and the road, making them the most important safety feature in wet or icy conditions.
- Check tread depth:The UK legal minimum is 1.6mm, but for winter driving a tread depth of 3mm or moreis strongly recommended for better grip.
- Inspect tyre pressure:Cold weather can cause pressure to drop, reducing handling and increasing braking distance. Always make sure tyres are inflated to the manufacturer’s recommended levels.
- Look for damage:Cuts, bulges, or uneven wear can make tyres unsafe.
💡 At Hire2You, we ensure every van and car in our fleet has tyres that meet or exceed safe standards, but it’s always wise to double-check before your journey.
2. Lights and Visibility
With shorter daylight hours, fog, and heavy rain, visibility is a major concern for winter driving.
- Test all lights:Headlights, brake lights, and indicators should all be in working order.
- Clean lenses and windscreens:Dirt and salt from gritted roads can quickly build up, making it harder for you to see, and for others to see you.
- Wipers and washers:Make sure your wiper blades are in good condition and your washer bottle is topped up with a winter-grade solution that won’t freeze.
Carrying a de-icer spray and ice scraperis also essential. Even though Hire2You vehicles are maintained to high standards, it’s a simple step that ensures you’re ready for frosty mornings.
3. Fluid Levels (Oil, Coolant, Screenwash)
Cold weather puts extra demand on your vehicle’s engine. Low or incorrect fluid levels can lead to breakdowns, the last thing you want on a freezing night.
- Oil:Check the oil dipstick to ensure the level is within the recommended range. Oil that’s too low or dirty can damage the engine.
- Coolant/antifreeze:This prevents the engine from freezing in low temperatures and overheating in heavy traffic.
- Screenwash:Use one with a winter additive to avoid freezing, keeping your windscreen clear for safe visibility.
At Hire2You, our team checks and tops up all fluids as part of routine maintenance, but we always recommend drivers do a quick inspection before heading out on longer journeys.
4. Brakes and Steering Response
Slippery winter roads mean your brakes and steering need to be in top condition.
- Test your brakes:Before setting off on a busy road, apply your brakes gently to check responsiveness. Listen for unusual sounds such as grinding or squealing.
- Check the handbrake:Cold weather can sometimes affect parking brakes, especially after heavy rain or frost.
- Steering:Ensure there’s no pulling to one side or stiffness in the wheel.
Hire2You regularly services all brake and steering systems, but as the driver, it’s important to be aware of how the vehicle feels once you’re behind the wheel.
5. Emergency Equipment and Preparedness
Even with the best preparation, winter driving carries extra risks. Delays, breakdowns, or poor weather can leave you stranded, so having basic emergency equipment is essential.
We recommend carrying:
- An ice scraper and de-icer.
- A torchwith spare batteries.
- A mobile phone chargeror power bank.
- Warm clothing or a blanket, especially if driving long distances.
- Snacks and waterfor longer journeys.
Hire2You provides full breakdown cover and replacement vehicles if needed, giving you peace of mind when hiring. For more practical guidance, see our hire vehicle breakdown guide.
Frequently Asked Questions
Do Hire2You vehicles come with winter tyres?
Most vehicles are equipped with all-season tyres suitable for Kent’s climate. For extreme conditions, we can advise on the safest option for your journey.
What happens if a hire vehicle breaks down in winter?
All Hire2You hires include breakdown cover and support. If an issue occurs, we’ll get you back on the road quickly or supply a replacement vehicle.
Do I need to bring my own de-icer and scraper?
Yes, we recommend drivers bring their own for convenience, particularly on frosty mornings.
Can I hire larger vans for safer winter deliveries?
Absolutely. Our fleet includes SWB, LWB, and Luton vans, perfect for trades, couriers, and seasonal deliveries. If you’re not sure which is best for you, our van size guideexplains the differences.
Is insurance included with Hire2You vehicles?
Yes, every vehicle includes fully comprehensive insurance, giving you complete peace of mind.
Why Choose Hire2You This Winter?
Hire2You isn’t just about affordable hire, we’re about keeping you safe and supported throughout your journey.
- Affordable daily rates: from £29/day for cars, £49/day for vans.
- No deposit, no credit check, no hidden fees.
- Wide fleet to suit every need: family cars, trade vans, courier-ready Lutons.
- Same-day hire availablefor urgent needs.
- Local business based in Strood (Rochester), trusted across Kent.
We also share useful driving insights year-round, such as our blog on saving fuel and money on road trips, which ties directly into winter fuel efficiency.
With Hire2You, you’re not just hiring a vehicle, you’re gaining the backing of a local, reliable partnerwho understands winter driving challenges.
Conclusion: Drive Safe, Hire Smart
Winter driving in Kent doesn’t have to be stressful. By carrying out these five essential checks, tyres, lights, fluids, brakes, and emergency kit, you can make every journey safer.
At Hire2You, we ensure our vehicles are maintained to the highest standards, but preparation is always the key to peace of mind.
Book your winter-ready hire vehicle with Hire2You today and drive with confidence this season.