Why oils, fluids and filters need extra attention between seasons

Wednesday 1st October 2025

As the nights draw in and the days get shorter, autumn brings wet, cold and windy weather – far from ideal conditions to experience a breakdown. In this guide, we’ll explain why maintaining your vehicle’s fluids and filters is crucial for keeping it in top condition all year round.

Winter engine oil maintenance

Colder weather puts extra strain on your vehicle, increasing the risk of breakdowns as the seasons change.

Low temperatures cause oil to thicken, especially if it’s old or dirty. Thick oil doesn’t lubricate the engine effectively which can make it harder for your engine to start and can even lead to damage over time.

Moisture can be another concern. British weather can be damp and drizzly even at the best of times, and condensation inside your engine can cause rust and corrosion. When water mixes with engine oil, it can cause the engine to overheat, as the diluted oil will not be as effective at lubricating moving parts. Fresh, clean oil helps remove excess moisture and protects against corrosion.

You might also notice that you need to top up on petrol more often in winter as your engine works harder. Regular oil changes can help improve fuel efficiency, helping you to save money at an already expensive time of year.

How often should you change your engine oil?

This depends on your driving habits and the type of oil you use. But, as a general rule, you should change your oil at least twice a year. Standard mineral oil will need to be changed more frequently, while semi synthetic and fully synthetic oils last longer.

How much does an oil change cost?

At Formula One Autocentres, a full oil change is included in both our full and interim services, with servicing prices starting at just £115. We also check your oil levels for free as part of our 10-point winter safety check.

Winter Filter Maintenance

Your vehicle has four filtering systems:

• Oil filter: Removes contaminants from the oil, especially important in the winter when oil tends to be thicker.
• Air filter: Supports combustion function and supports optimal fuel efficiency.
• Fuel filter: Prevents dirt and frozen water from clogging the fuel line.
• Cabin filter: Improves air quality in the car, which is especially helpful when the heater is in constant use in the winter months.

How often should you check and change your filters?

Filters are checked and replaced, if needed, during an interim or full service, with an interim service recommended every 6,000 miles or every 6 months, and a full service recommended every 12 months or every 12,000 miles.

Winter Fluids Maintenance

There are three fluids you should keep an eye on when the seasons change, especially as diluted fluids won’t be as much of an issue in warmer weather.

• Antifreeze and coolant: If the temperature gets too cold, diluted antifreeze and coolant could freeze, and since freezing liquids expand, they could crack your radiator or engine block.
• Screen wash: Frozen screen wash can block the jets, meaning reduced visibility when driving, as you won’t be able to clean your windscreen as effectively.
• Transmission fluid: Colder weather can make transmission fluid behave in a similar way to oil, making it thicker, slower and sluggish, making it harder to change gears.

How often should you maintain your vehicle’s fluids levels?

Your coolant and antifreeze levels should be checked every couple of months but fully changed according to your vehicle's owner’s manual. Your dashboard’s ‘low screenwash’ warning light will illuminate when you’re due a top-up of screenwash.

At Formula One Autocentres, we check your coolant and antifreeze levels and strength as part of our free 10-point winter safety check, and top up your screenwash for free*. So, what are you waiting for? Book today.

*Eligibility for a free 10-point winter safety check is not valid until another purchase is made online.