WINTER DRIVING TIPS
It’s that time of year again, where we find ourselves driving in the dark often and the British weather is unpredictable most of the time, during the winter months we battle with the daily changes from frost, fog, rain, ice and snow, although some times we are lucky enough to get the sunshine!
We’ve rounded up some top hints and tips to make sure you’re safe on the roads this winter and are prepared for whatever the British weather has to offer, with everything you need to hand in the car.
Get your car Winter ready!
We recommend booking your vehicle in for a winter check for added peace of mind. Plus you get a mini valet! For only £19.99
Magna winter check:
Screen Wash Fluid
To ensure that you can see clearly through the windscreen however mucky the conditions.
Anti Freeze Fluid
Anti-Freeze condition, and minus temperature level
Lights
Make sure that all lights work and are free from road grime – including foglamps and reversing lights.
Tyres/Winter Tyres
Check tyre tread and overall condition with no cracks or bulges. Make sure the tyres are pumped up to the pressure recommended. Re-set tyre pressure monitoring system if fitted.
Battery
Carry out Battery Test, checking state of health.
Wipers
Check these are in good condition and that they effectively clear the glass.
Brakes
Check Brake pad measurement, and Brake Disc condition
Survival kit
If you’re heading out on a longer journey in particular this Winter, we recommend being prepared for whatever the weather may blow your way!
It’s sensible to keep several items in the car over winter that could prove invaluable in the event of an emergency.
- Breakdown Cover Details
- Ice scraper or de-icer
- Blanket and warm clothing
- Water and food
- Fluorescent jacket and torch
- First aid kit
- Shovel and snow socks
- Boots (waterproof)
- Torch
- Sunglasses
- Mobile Phone Charger
Always remember the weather can change suddenly so there is no such thing as being over-prepared. Follow our tips and be safe this winter.
Driving in bad weather conditions.
First of all, if the weather is really bad think to yourself if where you are travelling can be delayed until the weather improves. If your journey can’t be delayed then it is important to adapt your driving to the weather conditions you will be travelling in.
Speed
In Winter conditions your car will take longer to react. Snowy, icy and wet roads will affect the time it will take for your car to stop when braking, therefor it is recommended to leave extra space between vehicles and to be aware of the speed you are travelling at.
Lights
You will feel like your lights are constantly on in the winter! It is important to use them correctly and override auto-lights as this technology will not always pick up on some weather conditions including fog.
Headlights – use dipped headlights in the fog, rain and snow.
Fog lights – should only be used when visibility is less than 100meters. Fog lights can dazzle other drivers if not used correctly.
Icy roads
When the roads are icy it is important to take extra care!
Be-aware of black ice, it is important to drop your speed and drive smoothly in icy conditions, any sudden acceleration, breaking, and steering will have a higher risk of causing the vehicle to skid if you hit black ice.When you need to brake try to do so when the vehicle is straight.
Driving in snow
Before setting off on your journey clear your windows, mirrors, roof and bonnet completely from snow. Make sure the heater is blowing out warm air as this will help keep the windscreen clear from condensation.
It is best to pull away in second gear in the snow, this gives less chance for you to wheel spin.
When driving in snow or icy conditions you have a higher chance of skidding. If you do skid and the brakes lock, release the brake peddle to regain control.
Driving in heavy rain
When driving in heavy rain your stopping distance decreases, keep a safe distance between you and the vehicle in front to allow your brakes to work with enough distance.
Using dipped headlights in the rain will allow other drivers to see you more clearly.
Keep your air conditioning on to keep your windscreen clear from mist.
Driving fast through deep or standing water can cause the tyres to leave the ground, if your steering feels light then you could be aquaplaning - if this happens ease of the accelerator without braking, this will allow your speed to reduce and for you to regain grip of the road. Driving fast through water can cause serious and expensive damage to your vehicle.
We hope you have found these winter driving tips handy, and you are prepared for the conditions you may face on the road ahead.
Contact us today to book in for a winter check and get your car winter ready!