Prepare Your Car For Icy Mornings & Stay Safe On The Road!

Shorter days and longer nights can only mean one thing! Like Ned Stark said, Winter Is Coming! We have compiled 5 tips for preparation and driving that can help keep you safe on the roads this winter! 

1. Preparation is key! Wake up early.

In the morning when you’re preparing your car, make sure that you defrost your car properly and ensure that you aren’t just looking through a small gap when driving! To assist with defrosting, turn on the air conditioning on the windscreen setting and remove the snow with a soft brush or use a scraper to remove any ice from the windows. You can also use a de-icer if the ice is proving difficult! 

2. Visibility! 

Don’t let the snow keep you from being seen! Make certain that all of your lights, front and back, are completely free of snow. Another tip whilst doing your lights also remove the snow off your license plates to avoid fines.

3. Have the right tyres!

The conditions of the roads worsen in winter and your tyres can help keep you safe; main roads will be less hazardous, but not all roads will be treated with the same care. We strongly advise you to have the correct tyre tread. Even better, you could get winter tyres that are designed for snow and ice, giving you more traction.

4. Plan your journey!

Always try to plan your route ahead of time, and use main roads as much as possible because they are more likely to be cleared of snow and gritted. Take off earlier than usual because journeys will take longer in the winter.

5. Take your time! 

When driving in winter conditions, be extra cautious. Here are a few things you can do to help with this. If your vehicle has a winter mode, it will start in higher gears, reducing tyre spin. Reduce the risk of an accident by increasing the stopping distance between yourself and other vehicles. When approaching a bend, brake before starting to turn; this way, you'll have more control. Hills can be tricky; try to maintain the same speed without changing gears when going uphill. 

As always, remember, Eurofit Autocentres specialises in brakes, servicing, MOTs, and tyres! Prepare for winter by visiting your nearest Eurofit Autocentres or you can book online using our easy online booking tool! 

Be sure to check out our various FREE health checks to give you peace of mind this winter season! Stay safe!