As the seasons change so too do the conditions in which we drive. Being prepared for these changes is fundamental to remain safe and comfortable when facing challenging winter driving conditions.
From darker evenings, to wet and ice roads – let’s highlight these fundamental hazards and discuss how we can best prepare your car for winter driving conditions in the UK.
8 Ways to Prepare Your Car For Winter Driving
Winter exposes your car to harsh and changing conditions, putting drivers in sometimes stressful or demanding situations, so it is important to keep your car in the best possible condition and prepare yourself for every weather-related situation.
For this reason, we have put together 8 top tips for safer winter driving:
1. Clear visibility
Ensure that you clear all ice (and even snow should it arrive) from your car’s windows before setting out. Clear the roof of snow with a broom, as it can quickly fall forwards onto your windscreen when braking, compromising your vision. Check and replace your wiper fluid and blades frequently, as they often get damaged when frozen.
2. Check your lights
During wet, muddy winter days, your car will take a bashing from the elements. So each time you set off, make sure your lights are fully visible as well as your number plate, as not doing so is illegal.
3. Batteries
Your car battery is relied upon more than ever during harsh winter conditions – from your increased use of heaters, to lights, and wipers – it all takes its toll on car batteries. Check on the health of your battery before winter sets in with a free car battery check at Halfords or another convenient service provider.
4. Winter tyres
Check your tyres have a healthy tread as this is key to avoiding skidding and staying safe on the roads. You should also consider having your tyres switched to specific winter tread ones, to safely handle mud, ice and snow.
5. Drive with caution
Knock mud, snow and ice off your driving shoes, to avoid slipping on your pedals when driving. Approach the roads with caution, taking extra time to pull away to avoid skidding in mud and snowy conditions – but If you do skid remember to release the brakes and clutch to gain control of your tyres safely.
6. Pack for emergencies
Blanket, wellies, hand warmers, socks, snacks, water – as much as you care to throw in the boot for a situation where you may need to stand outside of your car if broken down, or you should need to be prepared to walk safely to an emergency point.
7. Plan your journey
Before setting off and after doing all of your car safety checks, make sure you know exactly where you’re going and check for possible road blocks and detours. Most importantly, avoid driving when roads are dangerous due to treacherous winter driving conditions and only make essential journeys.
8. Repair chips and dents
Do not leave car chips and dents untreated, particularly during winter months as this is the time when rust is most likely to appear. We suggest any repairs are taken care of by a convenient mobile specialist such as Chips Away Dublin, who can carry our repairs at and time and place that is convenient to you.
