With a few sensible precautions, you can stay prepared for any eventuality.
Before any long journey, take a few minutes to check the tread and pressure of your tires (the legal minimum tread depth in the EU is 1.6mm).
It’s also sensible to keep an emergency kit in your car just in case. These often contain things like a high-visibility vest, jump leads and basic first-aid supplies. Everyday items like water, a blanket, phone charger and paper towels are also useful.
Some countries ask you to carry certain items by law – like first-aid kits and warning triangles – so check before you set off.
If you use winter tires, it’s time to change back to summer ones when the temperature starts regularly going over 10c. You’ll find your vehicle will perform better on wet and dry roads with good summer tires.
It’s easy to forget, but keeping all your fluids topped up is vital. Check your oil regularly, make sure you have enough windscreen washer fluid and don’t forget your brake fluid or coolant.
Little known fact: your tires lose twice as much pressure in summer as they do in winter, so make sure you check your tire pressure regularly. Underinflated tyres reduce your fuel economy.
Your battery works harder in the summer months, so if it’s a few years old consider having it tested by a professional.
Winter conditions are unpredictable, so if you get more than a light dusting of snow during the winter months, or if the temperatures regularly drop below 7 °C, you should switch to winter tires. They help provide better traction, grip and handling on snow, slush, ice and on frosty roads.
It’s worth remembering that because the ground temperature is often colder than the air temperature - especially at night and first thing in the morning - there are real benefits to winter tires even when the air is milder.
If you live in a place where you regularly drive in severe winter conditions, you may want to consider tire chains. They enhance traction on snowy and icy roads and are a legal requirement in some European countries at certain times of the year.
Make sure your brakes are performing the way they should. Check your heater and defroster before the winter comes so that you’re ready for those cold mornings.
Check your coolant – it should contain a 50/50 ratio of water to antifreeze. You should also make sure that your wiper fluid is right for winter and won’t freeze. Lastly, you might also want to think about replacing your wiper blades ahead of the snowy and icy weather.
You can buy special winter grade oil that will make it easier to start your car on cold mornings. It’s a good idea to have the oil changed before the cold sets in, especially if you’ve switched to thicker oil during the summer months.
The salt and chemicals that keep roads safe in winter can corrode your vehicle over time. While you’re at it, remember to keep your windows and windscreen clean so you can see as well as possible when driving.
Driving in wintry conditions can test the most skilful of driver. So slow down, leave extra space between your vehicle and the one in front of you, and learn how to handle skids, snow, and ice.
