It is being reported that Britain is bracing itself for snow towards the end of this week, following recent plummeting temperatures, strong winds and heavy rain.
To ensure your vehicle is safe and free of any potential hazards, it is important to undertake routine checks on your car on a regular basis, in addition to driving according to weather conditions and being prepared for all eventualities. All of these things can save you the stress of an unwanted breakdown or worse, an accident, further down the line.
Here’s our top 10 winter driving tips to make sure you are prepared and stay safe on the roads this Christmas.
1. Ensure your vehicle has had its most recent scheduled service - This will help you to identify any potential problems before they become a big issue, whilst also ensuring that your engine and all main components are healthy and in working order. A full service history will also help to protect your car’s value.
2. Check the tread and pressure of your tyres – As well as being a legal requirement and helping you avoid a hefty fine, the tread and pressure of your tyres can massively impact the response of your vehicle, especially in adverse weather. The current legal requirement for cars in the UK and Europe is 1.6mm across the central three-quarters of the tyre, however most experts recommend a minimum tread depth of 3mm for tyre replacement.
3. Ensure the essentials are all intact – Regularly check components such as bulbs and wiper blades, in addition to oil and anti-freeze levels.
4. Turn your wipers off automatic mode – If your wipers automatically start when frozen or covered in snow it could damage the motor or blades, so ensure they are set to manual to avoid any potential damage.
5. Ensure you have plenty of fuel – When setting off on a long journey, ensure you have ample fuel should you encounter any extreme weather conditions or severe traffic.
6. Check your windscreen is clear – A frozen or snow-covered windscreen can severely affect your visibility so always ensure this is clear when setting off on any journey, short or long.
7. Clear any snow off your roof – No matter how thick or thin a coating, snow on a car’s roof can be extremely hazardous if it slides off when driving. This can also affect drivers behind you and distort their view should it hit their car when driving at high speeds. To avoid any issues, clear any excess snow before you set off on your journey.
8. Consider driving a 4x4 – The four-wheel (4WD) and all-wheel (AWD) market has significantly increased in recent years, offering affordable vehicles that can provide added safety in the winter. Both options can improve traction in dangerous conditions, in addition to being more likely to get you moving, as each tyre requires less grip that a standard two-wheel drive model.
9. Pack a winter driving kit - Should you be unfortunate and experience a breakdown or accident, a winter driving kit will keep you comfortable until help arrives. Some things you may wish to consider include: a torch, blankets, clothes, food and water, a first aid kit, a spade, a high visibility jacket and warning triangle. If you are travelling with a baby, extra milk and blankets are also advisable.
10. Drive with caution and remember best practice in adverse weather – our top tips include:
• Pull away slowly when moving from stationary
• Avoid harsh acceleration or braking
• Use a low gear on down-hill stretches to control your car through ‘engine braking’ rather than your brakes alone
• Try and maintain a consistent speed when travelling uphill
If you would like to find out more about our range of 4x4s, which are all available with 0% finance, view our full range of stock online or contact us to discuss your requirements with one of our dedicated sales team.
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