Tips and Tricks for Driving Your WAV in the Winter

Winter driving can be challenging for everyone, but when you drive a wheelchair accessible vehicle (WAV), there are a few extra considerations to keep in mind.

Preparation is key to staying safe and comfortable, especially when driving during freezing temperatures. Here are our top tips and tricks for driving your WAV during the colder months.

Keep Your WAV Battery Healthy

Low temperatures can drain your vehicle’s battery faster, so it’s important to test your battery before winter sets in and continue to take your WAV on regular trips to keep the battery charged.

Keep Your WAV Cosy & Comfortable

Comfort matters just as much as safety. So, before you head off on your journey, consider the following:

Preheat your WAV before loading.
Use seat warmers if available.
Carry extra blankets for passengers.

Check Your Tyres

Cold weather can reduce tyre pressure, which affects your WAV’s grip on icy or wet roads.

Ensure your tyres are properly inflated and have adequate tread depth.
Consider winter tyres for improved traction in snow and ice.

Person inflating a car tire with a portable air compressor on snowy ground, focusing on the wheel and equipment for winter car maintenance.

Pack a Winter Emergency Kit

Include essentials like:

Warm blankets
De-icer and scraper
First-aid kit
Torch and spare batteries
Snacks and water

If you’re hiring a WAV from Allied Mobility, check what’s included and add any personal items you need.

Cars drive on a snowy, curved road in dense fog with limited visibility. Streetlights cast a warm glow. Trees and road signs are faintly visible in the background.

Plan Ahead for Longer Journeys

Winter weather can cause delays, so:

Check the forecast before you travel.
Allow extra time for your journey.
Make sure your WAV’s fuel tank is topped up.

Book a Winter Health Check

If you own a WAV, schedule a winter service to ensure everything is in top condition. A vehicle service is especially important if you own a used WAV or older mobility car to ensure your WAV’s tyres, brakes and air conditioning system are all in safe working order.

If you’re an Allied Mobility customer, you can have your WAV serviced right outside your front door thanks to HomeStay™ mobile servicing*. What’s more, if you lease your WAV with the Motability Scheme, this service is completely free of charge!*

Driving in winter doesn’t have to be stressful. With the right preparation, your wheelchair accessible vehicle will keep you safe, warm and mobile all season long. Whether you are looking to take ownership of a new or used WAV, lease through the Motability Scheme or hire a WAV for short or long-term, Allied Mobility is here to help you stay on the road this winter.

A man in a wheelchair with a leg cast talks to a mobility van technician beside a black Allied Mobility service van in a suburban driveway.

Safe travels and stay cosy!

Find the WAV that’s made for you

*Mobile servicing available for Ford, Peugeot (with the exception of ehorizon™) and Vauxhall WAVs on the Motability Scheme. For other manufacturers, we’ll arrange your vehicle service with your local garage. Vehicle service charges apply as standard for WAVs purchased outright.