As the days get shorter and the weather starts to turn, now’s the perfect time to make sure your car is ready for the season ahead. Autumn brings damp roads, fading daylight, falling leaves — and a few unexpected driving challenges. A few simple checks now can help keep you moving safely as conditions change.

Inspect Your Tyres
Tyres need good tread to grip wet, leaf-covered roads. Use the 20p coin test or ask your local garage to check them. Also check your tyre pressure — cooler temperatures can cause a drop without you noticing.

Look at Your Wiper Blades
If your wipers leave streaks or make strange noises, they might be worn out. Autumn often means drizzle and falling leaves, so clear visibility is key. Don’t forget to check the washer fluid too — and top it up with a proper screenwash that won’t freeze overnight.

Check Your Lights
With darker mornings and earlier evenings, visibility becomes more important. Make sure all your lights are working properly — including headlights, brake lights, fog lights, and indicators. Wipe down lenses to remove dirt or cloudiness that may have built up over the summer.

Test the Heater and Demister
You might not have used your heater in months, but now’s a good time to test it. Make sure the warm air and windscreen demister work properly before those misty mornings become a daily thing.

Top Up Fluids
Oil, coolant, brake fluid — all essential as temperatures drop. If you’re unsure what’s low or what type you need, your handbook or garage can help.

A Little Prep Goes a Long Way
Autumn driving doesn’t have to be tricky — but it does ask more of your car. Taking a few minutes to check everything over can make all the difference. And if something does go wrong, AutoAidl breakdown cover is ready to help, day or night.