Making your company vehicle winter-ready starts with preventive maintenance and proper preparation. Check the battery, replace worn windshield wipers, check the antifreeze level and consider winter tires. Also ensure you have an emergency kit with jumper cables, a shovel and warm clothing. With these steps you prevent most winter breakdowns and keep your company vehicle running reliably.
Why do company vehicles break down more often in winter?
Company vehicles have more winter problems because they are used more intensively than private cars. They are parked outside more often, drive more miles and are loaded more heavily. Cold temperatures affect the battery, causing starting problems. Frost can also block pipes and locks.
The main causes of winter breakdowns in company vehicles are:
- Battery failure due to cold (loses up to 50% capacity in freezing weather)
- Frozen windshield washer fluid and locks
- Thick engine oil that flows poorly at low temperatures
- Slippery roads that cause tire problems and accidents
- Condensation in the fuel tank due to changing temperatures
Company vehicles are more vulnerable because they are often parked outside at night, while private cars are more often parked in garages. The intensive use also causes more wear on parts that are sensitive to cold.
What winter maintenance does your company vehicle really need?
Winter maintenance for company vehicles consists of five important checks that you ideally perform in October. Check the battery voltage, replace windshield wipers, check antifreeze, test the lighting and inspect the tires. This checklist prevents 80% of all winter breakdowns.
Concrete winter maintenance actions:
| Component | Check | Timing |
|---|---|---|
| Battery | Measure voltage, clean terminals | October |
| Antifreeze | Check level and concentration | Before the first frost |
| Windshield wipers | Replace when worn | October/November |
| Engine oil | Check level and viscosity | Before winter |
| Lighting | Test all lights | Monthly |
Also pay attention to the windshield washer fluid: always use a winter mixture that can withstand temperatures down to -20°C. Check the exhaust for rust or damage, as a defective exhaust is dangerous during long trips with closed windows.
How do you choose the right winter tires for your company vehicle?
Winter tires are mandatory in many European countries and significantly improve grip at temperatures below 7°C. For company vehicles that make many international trips, genuine winter tires are recommended. All-season tires are a compromise that is suitable for Dutch winters.
Different tire options for winter:
- Winter tires: Best grip below 7°C, mandatory in Germany and Austria
- All-season tires: Suitable for mild winters, can be used year-round
- Summer tires with snow chains: Only suitable for occasional use
The following factors play a role in tire selection: driving behavior (lots of highway or local), destination (Netherlands or Europe), budget and storage possibilities. Professional tire advice helps you make the right choice based on your specific situation.
Winter tires are legally mandatory in Germany in winter conditions. A fine can be up to €80, plus liability problems in case of accidents. All-season tires with M+S marking meet most European requirements.
What do you do if your company vehicle breaks down in winter anyway?
Stay calm and ensure safety if your company vehicle breaks down. Park the car safely on the side of the road, turn on the hazard lights and place a warning triangle. Call for help and try to keep the engine warm if it is still running. Avoid unnecessary attempts that could cause damage.
Practical steps for winter breakdowns:
- Safety first: Park safely, hazard lights on
- Make a diagnosis: Dead battery, frozen parts or another cause?
- Try simple solutions: Use jumper cables, defrost locks
- Call professional help: Call roadside assistance
- Wait in the warmth: Keep the engine running if possible
For battery problems, jumper cables can help, but let the engine run for at least 30 minutes afterwards. You can carefully defrost frozen locks with a hair dryer or lukewarm water. Never use boiling water: it can cause windows to crack.
Always have an emergency kit in your company vehicle: jumper cables, a flashlight, warm clothing, a shovel, salt or sand for extra grip and a power bank for your phone. This investment of approximately €50 can save you a lot of trouble.
How Autobedrijf Verdonk helps with winterizing company vehicles
We offer complete winter checks for company vehicles in our workshop in Veldhoven. Our experienced team checks all important components and advises on necessary repairs. As a Tyres-on specialist, we also help with choosing the right tires for your company vehicle.
Our winter services for company vehicles:
- Complete winter check: Battery, antifreeze, lighting and tires
- Tire service: Winter tires, all-season options and change service
- Battery maintenance: Testing, charging and replacing if necessary
- Preventive maintenance: Oil changes and fluid checks
- Windshield wiper service: Replacement and windshield washer fluid refill
- Emergency repairs: Quick help with winter breakdowns
Autobedrijf Verdonk also performs maintenance and repairs for all other car brands. Our location 300 meters from ASML makes us extra accessible for company vehicles in the region.
Would you like to have your car winterized or do you have questions about maintenance? Please feel free to contact us or visit us in Veldhoven. Read more about our history or contact us for an appointment.