Are You Prepared For Winter Driving?

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Driving in winter can be tricky and dangerous, especially if you’re driving on icy roads. It winter requires drivers to take extra precautions to keep themselves and their passengers safe. To stay protected while driving in winter, make sure your vehicle is prepared and is able to adapt to varying road and weather conditions. The last thing you need is a car that breaks down in the middle of a snowstorm! Aside from your regular maintenance tasks, carry out these checks when you feel the icy months coming.

• • • • • Wiper blades – Check your windscreen wiper blades for damage, which often occurs when the blades become frozen to the windscreen glass and you try to free them up. Have replacement wipers handy. You can also purchase winter wiper blades. In line with this, make sure you have enough screenwash in your wiper pump as well.
        • Coolant – Check to see if the coolant is between the maximum and the minimum markers, and if there is enough anti-freeze in it. Anti-freeze prevents damage to the engine during winter months and should be refreshed every two years.
        • Car battery – Make sure your car battery is fully charged before using the car, especially if your car has not been used for a period of time. Better yet, have your entire battery and charging system serviced for optimum performance.
        • Tires – Tread is crucial especially when driving in harsh winter conditions. Check your tires’ condition and make sure there is adequate tread. Scrutinize your tires to check for damage such as bulges and splits, and don’t forget to check the pressure. You can also consider buying tires especially made for driving on icy roads as these give you greater grip, control, and traction on slippery surfaces.

• Oil and filter – If you live in an already-cold climate, consider changing from a regular oil to one more suited for winter. Be diligent about checking the oil and replace your filter if necessary.
• Brakes – Have your brakes check to see if they’re working smoothly. The braking system can save your life!
• Exhaust – When it’s extremely cold outside, it’s usual to drive with the windows closed. This could be dangerous if your car has a carbon monoxide leak, so have your exhaust system checked and repaired if necessary.
• Lights – Your vehicle’s headlights should be properly aimed and all lighting—exterior and interior—works properly.
• Fuel – Keep your tank at least half full; this decreases the chances of damage to the gas lines. Moisture that forms in the gas lines can freeze and contribute to engine damage.
• Emergency kit – Stock an emergency kit to prepare yourself for whatever happens on the road. This kit should include jumper cables, a flashlight, extra clothing, an ice scraper, bottled water, candles and matches, dry food, a blanket, flares, and, if possible, a fully-charged satellite phone with an emergency number taped to it.

Be a responsible and sensible driver by conducting these essential vehicle checks before winter. By doing so, you avoid the inconvenience and discomfort of being stranded out in the cold. Another tip is to brush up on your defensive driving knowledge to keep you alert and prepared for the worst. Take an online theory test, review road rules and regulations, and know where service centers are. Remember, It’s better to be safe than sorry!