We use cookies to make your experience better. To comply with the new e-Privacy directive, we need to ask for your consent to set the cookies. Learn more.
Preparing for a Safe Winter Journey
14 Oct 2026
Winter driving can bring beautiful scenery, but it also presents unique challenges for motorists. Shorter days, colder temperatures, heavy rain, ice, fog and occasional snowfall can all affect driving conditions across the South West.
Whether you're heading off on a festive getaway, commuting to work, or visiting family and friends, a little preparation can make all the difference. Follow our top winter driving tips to help keep you and your Mercedes-Benz moving safely throughout the season.
Check your vehicle before you travel
The colder months can place extra demands on your vehicle, making regular checks more important than ever.
Before setting off, take a few minutes to inspect:
- Tyre condition and tread depth
- Tyre pressures
- Windscreen washer fluid
- Engine oil levels
- Coolant levels
- Lights and indicators
- Wiper blades
- Battery condition
Cold weather can reduce battery performance, so if your vehicle has shown any signs of struggling to start, it's worth having it checked before winter is in full swing.
Keep your windscreen clear
Good visibility is essential when driving in winter conditions.
Allow extra time before your journey to fully clear frost, ice, snow and condensation from all windows and mirrors. Never set off with only a small cleared area on the windscreen.
Make sure your washer fluid contains winter screen wash to help prevent freezing and keep road grime from affecting visibility.
Prepare for changing weather conditions
Winter weather can be unpredictable, particularly on rural roads and higher ground throughout the South West.
Before travelling:
- Check local weather forecasts
- Review traffic updates
- Plan your route in advance
- Allow extra time for your journey
- Keep your fuel tank topped up
If severe weather is expected, consider whether your journey is essential and postpone travel where possible.
Adjust your driving style
Winter roads often require a gentler approach behind the wheel.
Remember to:
- Reduce your speed when conditions deteriorate
- Leave a larger gap to the vehicle ahead
- Brake smoothly and progressively
- Accelerate gently to maintain traction
- Avoid sudden steering movements
Even vehicles equipped with advanced safety technologies benefit from cautious, sensible driving when roads are wet, icy or covered in leaves.
Carry a winter emergency kit
It's always a good idea to be prepared, especially on longer journeys.
Consider keeping the following items in your vehicle:
- Warm clothing or blankets
- Torch and spare batteries
- Mobile phone charger
- Bottled water
- Snacks
- Ice scraper
- De-icer
- High-visibility vest
- First aid kit
These essentials can provide extra comfort and safety should you experience delays or an unexpected breakdown.
Make the most of Mercedes-Benzes safety technology
Modern Mercedes-Benz vehicles are equipped with a range of intelligent safety and driver assistance systems designed to support you on every journey.
Features such as Active Brake Assist, Attention Assist and advanced traction systems can help provide additional confidence when driving in challenging conditions. However, these systems are designed to assist the driver, not replace attentive and responsible driving.
Book a winter health check
The best way to prepare your vehicle for winter is to ensure everything is performing exactly as it should.
At Mercedes-Benz South West, our manufacturer-trained technicians can carry out a comprehensive vehicle inspection, checking key components that are most affected by colder weather.
From tyres and brakes to batteries and fluids, we'll help ensure your Mercedes-Benz is ready for whatever winter brings.
Stay safe this winter
A little preparation goes a long way when it comes to winter driving. By checking your vehicle, planning ahead and adapting to changing conditions, you can enjoy safer and more comfortable journeys throughout the season.
