Melbourne Winter Driving: 6 Tips to Avoid a Costly Breakdown

Melbourne's winter weather — fog, rain, and cold mornings — puts extra strain on your car and your driving skills. Here are essential tips to help you avoid breakdowns and stay safe this winter.

1. Check Your Battery

Cold weather is the number one killer of car batteries. If your battery is more than 3 years old, have it tested before winter hits. A dead battery is the most common reason for winter breakdowns.

2. Inspect Your Tyres

Check your tyre pressure monthly — cold air causes tyre pressure to drop. Also check your tread depth. The legal minimum in Victoria is 1.5mm, but for wet winter roads, 3mm+ is recommended.

3. Top Up Your Fluids

Ensure your coolant is at the right level and mix. Check your windscreen washer fluid — you'll use more in winter. Low oil can cause cold-start problems too.

4. Test Your Lights and Wipers

With shorter days and more rain, working lights and wipers are essential. Replace any blown bulbs and fit new wiper blades if yours are streaking.

5. Keep an Emergency Kit

Pack a winter emergency kit: torch, phone charger, water, warm blanket, and Any Car Towing Melbourne's number (0413 176 223).

6. Drive for the Conditions

Increase your following distance in wet weather, use your headlights in rain and fog, and slow down on cold mornings when black ice may be present.