Winter driving can present a whole new set of challenges, both for you and for your vehicle. Our partners at Alphabet have compiled a comprehensive online guide filled with top tips to help you prepare for your journeys during the cold months, and stay safe while on the road.
Essential items to keep in your vehicle
Plan your journey and keep a torch, blanket, ice-scraper, small shovel, suitable shoes or boots and clothing, de-icing fluid and a supply of winter grade screen wash fluid in the vehicle. It’s advisable to have some food and drink, including a flask, for the journey. Tell friends or family where you’re going, which route you’re taking, and when you expect to arrive.
Five basic checks to keep your vehicle happy in the cold:
- Battery (ICE vehicles)
A healthy battery is essential in winter when frequent engine starting and use of lights is heavy. Ensure the connections are tight and, if the battery has an inspection window, check the displayed colours as follows: GREEN The battery is working properly. BLACK The battery needs charging. CLEAR/YELLOW The battery needs replacing.
- Tyres
Check tyre pressures, including the spare (if any), and measure tread depths. At Alphabet we replace tyres at 2mm. The legal minimum for cars and vans is 1.6mm, but deeper tread improves grip in snow. Markers in the tyre tread indicate wear; if they are flush with the tread you’ll need to replace the tyre. All Season tyres are becoming more available (although not in all sizes), and provide an improvement in control in cold weather.
- Screen wash
It’s crucial that you use the correct screen wash additive, especially in colder weather. Don’t dilute premixed screen wash solution as this will reduce its effectiveness and remember that the washer system can still freeze even if you have heated washer jets.
- Anti-Lock Braking System (ABS) and Electronic Stability Programme (ESP)
ESP and ABS systems may activate to help you control the vehicle effectively. The ESP/ABS light will flash on to let you know. When ABS is in operation it produces a pulsing sensation through the brake pedal, and a distinctive ‘crunching’ sound. Even with the technology, stopping distances may not reduce when braking on ice or snow, so keeping an increased distance from the vehicle in front is important.
- Register for a FREE vehicle health and safety check
Visit your local Kwik-Fit centre for a free vehicle health check. It will include all the above recommendations, plus a battery condition report to ensure your vehicle will start in cold weather. To learn more about the vehicle safety check and the benefits it offers, click below for details.
Driving in snow and wet weather
It takes just six inches of fast-flowing water to knock you off your feet, while a foot of water is enough to float a vehicle. In short, water presents huge hazards to motorists. If you are caught in snow, drive with due respect to the conditions, reduce speed and allow extra distance between you and the vehicle in front.
Click HERE for Top Tips for driving in wet weather and snow, plus tips for maximising your EV’s range in cold weather.