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.

A person in a brown jacket and jeans uses a portable air compressor to inflate the tyre of a wheelchair accessible vehicle in snowy conditions, preparing for safer winter driving.

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.

Winter driving scene viewed from inside a WAV, travelling along a snowy and foggy road. Streetlights cast a soft glow through the dense fog, while several wheelchair accessible vehicles are visible ahead on the road. Low visibility highlights the challenging winter weather conditions, emphasising safe travel for WAV users.

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 plaster cast on his foot sits on a drive, discussing winter driving tips with a smiling man by an open WAV. A black WAV displaying “Vehicle Servicing Where You Are” and company branding is parked nearby.

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.