We all know how cold it can get at this time of year. Dark, frosty and often icy mornings can be daunting when you head to your car in the morning. When the weather is like this, it is really important to make sure you are prepared and that your car is a safe as possible.
When the temperature drops during winter, it can cause damage to the roads which leads to cracks and potholes forming. Of course when driving over a pothole, this can cause you to swerve or it can damage your car so make sure to take extra care when on the road.
Poor weather conditions can also disguise how treacherous the roads actually are. Snow and slush can hide dangerous ice beneath. If you are caught on ice when driving you can easily lose control of your vehicle or get stuck. So, what can you do to make sure you stay safe when in winter?
Tyres are an important factor when it comes to staying safe when in your vehicle once the temperature drops. In the UK, there is no legal requirement to have winter tyres fitted on your car at any time of the year however, they do improve safety.
Winter tyres become more effective when the temperature is below 7 degrees. This is because they are designed for use in cold weather as they make it easier for you to control your vehicle on wet and snowy roads. Stopping distances for winter tyres are also shorter when driving in winter conditions so you can experience an increased grip when your winter tyres are fit.
It is also important to check your oil levels and don’t gamble driving when you are low on fuel. Being dangerously low on oil can lead to breakdown or engine damage. You should also always check your oil when your car is warmed up, this is because a cold car can look low on oil.
Top up on antifreeze to prevent your engine’s cooler system from freezing. It should be topped up every two to five years depending on what car you have. Ensuring your wiper blades are in good condition and screenwash is topped up will also help to keep you safe by ensuring you can see clearly. When the weather turns bad, muddy and salty roads can quickly increase the amount of dirt that builds up.
Brakes are another important factor to remember when the weather drops and you want to keep safe. If they are making unusual noises or have a different sensation when braking, you should get them checked. If your car has been sat in the cold for a few days, make sure to set off slowly and give the car a bit of time to warm up. This will give the car chance to melt any frost or ice off of the brakes.
To ensure our customers can stay safe when winter comes around, at North Bridge Motors, we offer a FREE winter health check. This includes checking your tyres, brakes and battery to make sure that your vehicle is as safe as possible when out and about on the roads.
If you’d like assistance with your vehicle to make sure you are as safe as possible when driving this winter, please don’t hesitate to get in touch.