Checks you Should Do Before Winter Driving

Winters can be particularly treacherous for drivers. Research shows that drivers are 15% more likely to be involved in collisions during winter months, with weather-related factors contributing to a significant number of road incidents each year in the UK. As temperatures dip and with the potential of ice and snow, it becomes crucial for drivers to prepare their vehicles for these challenging conditions.  We will outline essential checks to ensure your car is ready for winter driving. From checking your tyres to ensuring your vehicle’s heating system is functional, we will provide you with the knowledge needed for a safer driving experience this winter. Buckle up and dive into our comprehensive winter driving checklist!

1. Inspect Your Tyres

The first step in preparing your vehicle for winter driving is checking your tyres. Winter conditions can be severe; therefore, having the right tyres is essential. Here are specific things to check:

• Tread Depth: Ensure your tyre tread depth is at least 3mm, as this provides better traction on snowy or icy roads. Use the twenty-pence test – insert a 20p coin into the tread; if you can see the outer rim, consider replacing your tyres. While the legal minimum is 1.6mm, 3mm is recommended for winter safety.
• Tyre Pressure: Cold weather can lower your tyre pressure, leading to a higher risk of skidding or losing control. Regularly check and maintain the prescribed pressure, which is usually found in your car’s manual.
• Winter Tyres: If you live in an area prone to heavy snowfall, consider investing in winter tyres. These tyres are designed to offer improved grip on snow and ice due to their specific rubber compounds and tread patterns.

2. Ensure Your Battery is Charged

Older batteries tend to struggle in winter conditions, which can result in breakdowns. Consider these steps to ensure your vehicle’s battery is winter-ready:

• Check Battery Condition: Inspect for corrosion on the terminals and check for any bulging or leaks. If your battery is more than three years old, a replacement might be in order.
• Battery Voltage Check: Use a multimeter to check the battery’s voltage. A healthy battery should read around 12.6 V. If it’s lower than this, consider charging or replacing it before the winter.

3. Test Your Lights

As daylight hours decrease during winter, visibility becomes paramount.

• Headlights and Taillights: Make sure all your lights are functioning correctly. Replace burnt-out bulbs and clean any dirt or snow that might obstruct your lights. This will help ensure you can see and be seen.
• Fog Lights: In case of weather causing impaired vision, fog lights are invaluable. Ensure these are functional, and know when it’s appropriate to use them,  typically in foggy or extremely rainy conditions.

4. Check Windscreen Wipers and Fluid

Visibility is a key factor in winter driving safety.

• Wiper Condition: Inspect your wiper blades for cracks or splits. If they leave streaks on the windscreen or don’t make full contact, it’s time to replace them.
• Windscreen Washer Fluid: Ensure your washer fluid is topped up with a winter solution that won’t freeze. Use a concentrated solution with at least a -20°C rating to prevent freezing. Ice or snow on the windshield can impair visibility, making this check critical.

5. Review Your Heating and Defrosting Systems

A functioning heating system is not just for comfort but essential for safety.

• Test the Heater: Ensure that your car’s heating system operates effectively to keep windows from fogging up and to stay warm in cold conditions.
• Defrost Functionality: Check if your defrosters work well so you can clear any condensation from your windshield quickly.

6. Check Antifreeze and Coolant Levels

Protecting your engine from freezing temperatures is crucial.

• Antifreeze Concentration: Check that your coolant has the correct antifreeze concentration, typically a 50/50 mix of antifreeze and water. This should protect your engine down to at least -30°C.
• Coolant Level: Ensure coolant levels are topped up to the recommended mark. Low coolant can lead to engine overheating even in cold weather.
• System Inspection: Look for any signs of leaks or damage to the cooling system while checking levels.

7. Inspect Belts, Hoses, and Brake System

Cold weather can cause rubber components to crack or fray, and reliable brakes are essential for winter safety.

• Visual Inspection: Look for visible signs of wear, such as cracks in belts or bulging hoses.
• Engine Coolant Hoses: Ensure that coolant hoses are leak-free and firmly connected, as an engine overheating can lead to severe issues.
• Brake Fluid: Check brake fluid levels and top up if necessary. Brake fluid absorbs moisture over time, which can reduce braking efficiency.
• Brake Pads: Have your brake pads inspected, as braking distances can increase by up to ten times on icy roads. Worn pads compound this danger.

8. Fuel Tank Management

Keeping adequate fuel is about more than just range in winter.

• Keep Tank Half Full: Maintain at least a half-full tank of fuel throughout winter. This helps prevent fuel lines from freezing, provides extra weight for traction, and ensures you won’t run out if stranded.
• Fuel Additives: Consider using a fuel additive designed to prevent fuel line freeze-ups in extremely cold conditions.

9. Protect Door Locks and Seals

Frozen doors can leave you stranded before you even start driving.

• Lubricate Locks: Apply a silicone-based lubricant to door locks to prevent them from freezing. Keep a de-icer in your house or bag, not in the car.
• Rubber Seals: Treat rubber door seals with a silicone spray or rubber protectant to prevent them from freezing to the door frame and tearing when opened.

10. Understand Your Vehicle’s Winter Features

Modern vehicles often have features designed to help in winter conditions.

• ABS (Anti-lock Braking System): Understand how your ABS works – you should apply firm, continuous pressure rather than pumping the brakes.
• Traction Control: Know how to engage or disengage traction control if needed. In some deep snow situations, briefly turning it off may help.
• Winter Mode: If your vehicle has a winter or snow mode, familiarize yourself with how it works before you need it.

11. Emergency Car Kit

Preparation isn’t just about mechanical checks; it’s also about being equipped for emergencies.

• Contents of an Emergency Kit: Your kit should include:
  • A first aid kit
  • Blanket or sleeping bag
  • Water and non-perishable snacks
  • Torch and spare batteries
  • Car charger for your phone (keep your phone fully charged before journeys)
  • A snow shovel and ice scraper
  • Jumpstart cables
  • Sand or cat litter for traction on ice
  • Hi-visibility vest
  • Warning triangle
• Check Your Kit Regularly: Ensure your kit is well-stocked and replace any expired items.

12. Insurance and Documentation

Don’t overlook the administrative side of winter preparedness.

• Insurance Check: Verify your insurance is current and covers breakdown assistance. Check if your policy covers winter-specific incidents.
• Important Documents: Keep your insurance documents, breakdown service numbers, and emergency contacts easily accessible in your vehicle.
• Digital Backups: Save copies of important documents on your phone in case you need them while away from the vehicle.

13. Roadside Assistance

If you haven’t already, consider subscribing to a roadside assistance program for peace of mind.

• Benefits of Roadside Assistance: These programs can help if you find yourself stranded due to vehicle issues or accidents. Always have the contact details saved in an easily accessible location and programmed into your phone.

14. Know the Weather Conditions

Always check the weather before heading out by comparing online resources and weather apps.

• Preparing for Bad Weather: If heavy snow or storms are forecasted, consider postponing your journey if possible.
• Plan Your Route: Choose roads that are likely to have been cleared of snow and ice, rather than preferred routes you might be used to. Check for live traffic updates and road closures.

15. Practice Defensive Driving

Finally, even with all equipment in place, nothing beats caution on the road.

• Adjust Your Driving Habits: Increase your following distance to at least four seconds, reduce your speed, and be mindful of how icy conditions impact braking distances.
• Anticipate Hazards: Be alert for black ice, especially in shaded areas or bridges where moisture can freeze. Know that even minor obstacles can become significant challenges in winter.
• Gentle Inputs: Use gentle, smooth movements when accelerating, braking, and steering to maintain control on slippery surfaces.

16. After Your Journey

Winter preparation extends to how you park and care for your vehicle after driving.

• Parking Strategy: Avoid parking in puddles that could freeze overnight and lock your wheels in ice.
• Handbrake Caution: In freezing conditions, consider leaving your car in gear (manual) or park (automatic) without engaging the handbrake, as brake cables can freeze. Only do this on level ground.
• Clear Snow and Ice: Remove all snow and ice from your vehicle before storing it to prevent it from refreezing and causing damage.

Conclusion: Preparing for the Winter Ahead

So, what’s your plan for winter driving? By following these essential checks before hitting the roads, you can significantly reduce your risk of accidents and breakdowns. Remember, preparation is key. Each step – from checking vehicle safety features to equipping yourself with the right gear – makes a difference in creating a safer driving experience.

If you need assistance prepping your vehicle for winter, don’t hesitate to contact Bartlett Automotive today for reliable service! Prepare wisely and drive safely this winter!