Winter in India is diverse. While North India experiences fog and near-freezing temperatures, cities like Kolkata face mild but significant seasonal changes — cooler mornings, occasional fog, higher humidity, and moisture-laden winter air.

Even though Kolkata’s winters are not extreme, your car still needs extra care to ensure smooth performance, safety, and longevity.

Here are some essential winter car care tips every Indian, especially Kolkata driver should follow.

1. Check Your Battery Health

Kolkata’s winter mornings may not be freezing, but cooler temperatures can still reduce battery efficiency. Cars that are not used regularly are more prone to weak or dead batteries.

What you should do:

• Get the battery voltage tested.
• Clean corrosion around battery terminals.
• Check for slow engine cranking — an early warning sign.
• Avoid keeping the car unused for weeks.

If your battery is over 3–4 years old, consider preventive maintenance or replacement.

2. Inspect Tyres and Maintain Proper Pressure

Tyre pressure tends to drop in winter. In Kolkata, uneven road surfaces and occasional foggy mornings make proper grip extremely important.

Check for:

• Correct tyre pressure as per manufacturer guidelines
• Cracks or ageing rubber
• Sufficient tread depth
• Spare tyre condition

If you often drive in wet or foggy conditions, ensure your tyres are not worn out, as it affects braking distance.

3. Ensure Your Lights Are Working Properly

Winter evenings in Kolkata arrive earlier, and visibility can drop due to mist or fog near wetlands, highways, and outskirts like Rajarhat, Barasat, and Dankuni.

Make sure:

• Headlights are clear and bright
• Fog lamps are working (if installed)
• Tail-lamps and brake lights are visible
• Indicator lights function properly

Avoid using high-beam unnecessarily, especially on narrow city roads.

4. Check the Braking System

With cooler roads and occasional dew-wet surfaces, strong and responsive brakes become critical.

Have a mechanic:

• Inspect brake pads and discs
• Check brake fluid level
• Ensure there is no grinding noise when braking

If you feel vibration or reduced braking power, get it checked immediately.

5. Maintain the Right Engine Oil Level

Engine oil thickens slightly in colder weather. While Kolkata winter is mild, low oil levels can still cause stress on the engine.

Follow the manufacturer’s service schedule and:

• Check oil levels regularly
• Replace oil if it’s old or dirty
• Use the recommended oil grade

This ensures smoother cold-morning starts.

6. Inspect the Cooling and Heating Systems

Many Kolkata drivers ignore the coolant, assuming winter means less engine heat. In reality, coolant prevents rust and maintains engine temperature balance.

Make sure:

• Coolant level is adequate
• There are no leaks
• The heater system works — helpful for defogging windows

Avoid topping up coolant with plain water.

7. Keep Your Windshield Clear and Wipers Healthy

Winter mornings often bring condensation and misted windshields. A dirty or scratched windshield can reduce visibility further.

Do the following:

• Clean the windshield regularly
• Replace worn-out wiper blades
• Use proper windshield washer fluid
• Avoid wiping mist with dry cloth (causes scratches)

Use the defogger function inside the car to clear the glass safely.

8. Protect Your Car’s Exterior and Interior

Kolkata winters are humid, especially near water bodies. Moisture can encourage rust and fungus growth inside the cabin.

Helpful tips:

• Wash and wax your car to protect paint
• Park in covered areas if possible
• Avoid leaving damp items inside
• Air out the cabin regularly

Seat covers and mats should be kept dry to prevent odour.

9. Drive Safely During Fog and Low Visibility

On highways such as NH16, Kona Expressway, or routes towards Durgapur and Odisha, fog can be heavier than within the city.

Remember:

• Use fog lamps — not high beams
• Maintain safe distance from vehicles ahead
• Avoid sudden braking
• Drive slower than usual
• Use hazard lights only when stationary

Defensive driving is key during winter.

10. Keep Emergency Essentials in Your Car

Winter breakdowns can happen unexpectedly. Keep the following in your vehicle:

• Torch
• Jumper cables
• First-aid kit
• Tow rope
• Water and basic tools
• Car documents

It’s always better to be prepared — especially on long drives.

Final Thoughts

Winter car care is not just for drivers in the hills or North India. Even in Kolkata’s mild winter, seasonal maintenance keeps your car performing reliably and ensures your safety on the road.

A few simple checks — tyres, battery, brakes, fluids, and visibility — can prevent costly repairs and unexpected breakdowns.

Treat your car like a companion. A little attention during winter ensures smooth, stress-free drives across the City of Joy.

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