5 Essential Winter Maintenance Tips for Your VW Transporter - Our VW Van winter essentials.

As the temperature drops and winter approaches, your VW Transporter or Caddy needs a bit of extra attention to keep it running smoothly through the colder months. Whether you use your van for business or leisure, these five essential maintenance tips will help you avoid breakdowns and costly repairs when the weather turns harsh.

1. Check Your Battery Health

Cold weather is brutal on van batteries. The chemical reactions that generate electricity slow down in low temperatures, meaning your battery has to work harder to start your engine. If your battery is more than three years old, it's worth having it tested before winter sets in. Look out for warning signs like slow engine cranking or dimming lights. A failed battery on a freezing morning isn't just inconvenient, it can cost you valuable work time or ruin travel plans.

2. Test Your Antifreeze Concentration

Your coolant system needs the right antifreeze-to-water ratio to prevent freezing and protect your engine. Too little antifreeze and you risk frozen coolant, which can crack your engine block and cost thousands in repairs. Use an antifreeze tester to check the concentration, aiming for protection down to at least -30°C. While you're at it, check for any coolant leaks and ensure your hoses are in good condition without cracks or soft spots.

3. Adjust Tyre Pressures for Cold Weather

Temperature affects tyre pressure significantly. For every 10°C drop in temperature, your tyres can lose about 1 PSI. Underinflated tyres mean poor fuel economy, reduced grip on wet or icy roads, and increased wear. Check your tyre pressures more frequently during winter, and don't forget your spare. Consider whether all-season or winter tyres might be worthwhile if you regularly drive in challenging conditions.

4. Protect Your Sliding Door Mechanisms

VW Caddy and Transporter sliding doors can suffer in winter if not properly maintained. Water can freeze in the tracks and mechanisms, making doors difficult or impossible to open. Clean the door rails thoroughly and apply a silicone-based lubricant (never grease, which can attract dirt and gum up in cold weather). If you have sliding door rail covers fitted, they'll help keep moisture and debris out of the mechanism. For Caddy rail covers shop here.

Check the door seals too, as these can become brittle in cold weather and let in drafts and moisture. Shop here for our range of door seals.

5. Combat Interior Condensation

Condensation inside your van isn't just annoying, it can lead to mould, rust, and electrical problems. Ensure your heating and ventilation system is working properly, and crack a window slightly when parked if possible, Our wind deflectors can enable you to do this. Keep the interior as dry as you can by removing wet items promptly and using moisture absorbers such as our dehumidifier bags. Check that door and window seals are intact, as even small gaps can let in surprising amounts of moisture.

Winter-Ready Products

At The VDUB Monkeys, we stock everything you need to prepare your van for winter, from replacement door seals to quality lubricants and maintenance products. Browse our full range of VW Van winter essentials or contact us for specific advice on winterising your VW Transporter or Caddy.

Don't wait until the first frost catches you out. A little preparation now will keep you on the road all winter long.