Before and during winter, you may forget to prepare your car for driving in colder weather. To help you out, we reveal our tips on how to drive in icy and snowy conditions and sufficiently prepare your car. During some years, the weather was better than expected. However, there is always the risk of another winter in which we see cars get stuck in the snow overnight and parts of the country ground to a halt. If you do have to drive in icy conditions, then you need to be careful when behind the wheel of the car and make sure your vehicle is ready for winter.
Tyres and brakes
The tread on your tyres will affect the handling of your car. If you think your tread is running low and could compromise your handling in the winter months, then do something about it now and buy some new tyres. New tyres offer peace of mind because they improve your stopping distances and overall handling, so they are well worth the cost.
Winter tyres are an additional option. They have deeper tread grooves, are made from a softer rubber compound and the tread pattern is designed to collect snow all resulting in greater traction when driving in icy or snowy conditions. The argument against
Your brakes should also be in full working order. When you are out on the ice, you have to be sure that you can stop your car at increased distances. The risk of sliding due to a failure to break in time greatly increases with colder weather.
Windscreens and windows
Clearing away ice from your windscreens and windows with a kettle may damage your vehicle. Instead use a sturdy scraper. You will find the best prices online?
Washing your windscreen is riskier in icy conditions. Avoid washing your windows if you can. If the weather is too cold, the water will freeze instantly and you won`t be able to see. Do not use your washer fluid until your engine has reached its optimal temperature to avoid any potential visibility issues.
Preparation the night before can save you reaching for the scraper. Simple use a windscreen cover or blanket by securing the fabric after closing your front doors.
Handling and stopping
Handling in the ice can be difficult so you should take corners slower and avoid any jerky steering-wheel movements which could send the car out of control. Just take your time and take corners smoothly and slowly to avoid any issues.
Stopping distances are longer in icy conditions, therefore, you need to take extra care when following other road users. Stay further away from cars in front so that if they stop, you have a better chance of coming to a halt in time. The last thing you want is to skid on any black ice. You should always be more vigilant at this time of the year and be more aware of other road users. You should also avoid hard acceleration and braking. Try to adopt a smoother and gentler driving style.
Breakdown cover
Before the onset of winter, you need to ensure you are fully prepared for any extreme weather conditions you might encounter in your car. If you do become stuck, you have to make sure that there is someone you can call to help you. If you want to compare various types of breakdown cover you can do so by visiting roadsideassistance.co.uk
Practical driving test tips