Motoring | Is your car ready for winter?

Unpredictable. That is one word to aptly describe our weather, especially during winter. As all good scouts learned from a young age, it is better to be prepared for the worst and this is especially the case when it comes to your car.

Everyone wishes for little flicks of snow during the festive season but when it starts to cost you, that novelty quickly fades. Those specks of snow can quickly impact your ability to drive, especially if your vehicle is not prepared for the impending cold season. 

Now is the time to get your car ready for winter.

Before you set off on any journey this winter, you need to assess your car tyres. They should be at least the minimum legal tread depth of 1.6mm but it is recommended that you change them before they are this worn. To manage in extreme conditions, they also need to be to the correct type pressure.

As advised by the RSA, you should have all of the essentials in your car to prepare for every event. This includes a high visibility vest, spare fuel, hazard warning triangle, first aid kit, working torch and de-icing equipment. Obviously, you need a spare wheel but check that it is in good working condition and inflated. In the place of a spare wheel, some manufacturers now have an inflation repair kit. In this case, you need to ensure you know how to use it.

The RSA also recommends that you have a tow rope, a shovel, fire extinguisher and additional clothing in case you break down.

A best practice for winter driving is to always use your lights correctly. For this, you need to ensure that both your headlights and taillights are in good working order.

Some cars have safety assist technology such as Electronic Stability Control (ESC) or Anti-Lock Braking System (ABS). These are good for driving in harsh weather conditions so it’s vital you understand how they work.

The biggest danger in the winter months is black ice. Check the weather forecast and relevant sites before you hit the road, and watch out for sheltered/ shaded areas on roads, under trees and near high walls.