Driving in winter can be quite stressful. Not only are you faced with more difficult driving conditions, you also need to remember to keep on top of certain safety aspects of your car maintenance.
I’m used to driving in the Winter with children in the car, I’ve always lived a little out of catchment for my daughter’s school which means I’m forced to drive daily, whether I want to or not – in all conditions!
These are the safety tips for winter driving that I’ve picked up along the way:
Check Your Tyres
I mean really check them. Not just the pressure (although that is important) but the tread too. Tyres need thick tread to grip the road, and if the tread on your tyres is worn down there’s a bigger chance your car might be involved in an accident due to skidding.
If the tread is in good condition, make sure there is enough air in them too, for the safest driving experiences.
If you want to give your car some extra care and love, then book car servicing in London at Iverson London branches at the best local rates.
Top up your engine coolant/anti-freeze
Engine coolant is a mixture of distilled water and anti-freeze which helps to prevent your engine from freezing in the winter (and also stops it from overheating all year round).
Test your windscreen wipers and Screenwash
Windscreen wipers keep your view nice and clear, but can become less effective overtime. I once ruined a set of mine by trying to wipe over ice that I thought was condensation. Once the wipers don’t clean the windscreen effectively, they can become a hazard.
I find that warm, dry summers mean I don’t use my wipers during those months, so when the bad weather comes, it’s easy to be unprepared. Keep your screenwash topped up and replace your wipers when they stop being very good at their job (it doesn’t cost much and it’s an easy fix to keep you safe).
De-Ice
I find that on the days my windscreen is iced over, my screenwash is frozen too. Rather than spraying de-icer then spending time scraping off the ice, I scrape first and use the de-icer second for a clearer finish. Once I’ve been driving a little while, the screenwash thaws and I can use it as usual.
Pack and coat (and a buggy)
My car has occasionally broken down and I’ve been required to get out and walk a small distance. Because of this, I always pack a warm coat and buggy to keep in my car in case of emergency.
I’m guilty of not wrapping up warm, having my car’s heaters on high so I’m toasty without the bulk of a coat, but if my car broke down while I was like that, I’d be in real trouble! I also say to bring buggy, because if you’re got any smallish children, you won’t want to carry them if you’re already stressed and a bit chilly!
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