Winter can be tough on cars in Stoke on Trent, from freezing mornings to potholes on the daily run through places like Hanley, Longton, Burslem, and Fenton. By February, many drivers start to notice small changes like new noises, sluggish starts, or steering that feels slightly off.

That’s why this is the perfect time for a quick once over. At DB Autos, we see winter wear every year and a few simple checks now can make a big difference as we head into spring.

Check Your Tyres After Winter Wear

Tyres take most of the winter punishment. Cold weather lowers pressure, grit wears them down faster, and potholes can cause damage you might not spot straight away.

Look for:

• Cuts, cracks, or bulges

• Uneven wear or low tread

• Underinflated tyres

• Damage from potholes

• A worn or overlooked spare tyre

Good tyres help with grip, comfort, and stopping distances especially in February’s wet conditions. If you’re unsure about yours, we can check them for you.

Inspect Your Suspension After Pothole Season

Stoke on Trent’s roads are no secret. Anyone driving around Hanley or Longton knows how quickly winter potholes appear. Even one hard impact can knock your suspension out of line.

Watch for:

• Knocking noises over bumps

• Vibrations through the steering

• The car pulling left or right

• Steering that feels heavier or looser

• Uneven tyre wear

If something feels off on your usual routes, let us take a look. Suspension problems tend to worsen over time, but they’re quick for us to diagnose.

Test Your Battery After the Cold Weather

February is one of the most common months for battery failures. Short journeys and freezing temperatures drain power, and most drivers don’t notice the signs until the car struggles to start.

Signs your battery may be failing:

• Slow engine turnover

• Dim headlights

• Clicking sounds when starting

• Sluggish electrical features

A battery test only takes a few minutes and can save you a stressful non start morning.

Give Your Brakes a Quick Check

Brakes work harder through winter because of salt, grit, and constant stop start traffic. Wear can build gradually, so it’s worth paying attention to any small changes.

Look for:

• Squeaking or grinding

• A soft or stiff brake pedal

• Vibrations when braking

• Longer stopping distances

If anything feels different, it’s best to get them checked. Brakes are one of the most important safety features on your car.

Check Your Wipers and Windscreen

February often brings misty mornings and sudden showers, so good visibility is essential. Wipers and windscreens take more wear over winter than people realise.

Check for:

• Streaks or smearing

• Wiper blades skipping or making noise

• Low screen wash

• Chips that could spread

These small fixes make everyday driving clearer and safer.

Top Up Your Fluids

Your car depends on its fluids all year round, but winter puts extra pressure on them. Make sure you check your:

• Engine oil

• Coolant

• Brake fluid

• Screen wash

Low or old fluids can cause overheating, poor braking, or visibility problems.

Get Ahead of the Spring MOT Rush

Spring is one of the busiest times for MOTs and servicing. If yours is due soon, February is the best time to book. You’ll avoid the rush, get the slot you want, and fix any winter wear before it becomes expensive.

If you’re not sure when your MOT is due, we’re always happy to check for you.

Start Spring Feeling Confident

Whether you need a quick health check, tyre advice, brake inspection, or a full service, our team at DB Autos is here to help. We know how winter affects local roads and we’ll always give honest, straightforward advice.

Plus, with free collection and delivery within 10 miles, keeping your car in great condition has never been easier.

Book your appointment today and get your car ready for safer, smoother driving this spring.