A wise man once said, “Take care of your car in the garage, and the car will take care of you on the road.” Driving is not only a functional activity, but it can be a spiritual experience too. So things you should be aware of while driving in cold conditions.

A good driving experience encompasses many factors like the good condition of the vehicle, smooth roads, favorable weather conditions, and safety measures.

An average driver can drive well if all of the above conditions are met but a good driver can drive even if some factors are not in their favor.

Driving in cold conditions is tricky and can unnerve the best of the drivers.

Read more and learn how simple tips and tricks can help you drive safely in cold weather.

Tips to prepare your vehicle for driving under winter conditions.

Snow, ice, and rain can pose a  great challenge for drivers. Regular maintenance of your vehicle lowers the chances of any mishap and also makes it a pleasant experience.

Electrical system

• Battery – Make sure that the battery is recharged.
• Ignition – Rule out damaged ignition wires.
• Lights –   Make sure that the headlights, side lights, emergency lights, indicators,   taillights, brake lights, and parking lights are working properly to ensure safety.

Brakes

Check brakes and brake oil.

Tires

The grooves on tires facilitate friction between tire and road surface. It plays a key role in how efficiently the vehicle is moving, turning, and halting. Invest in good-quality tires.

Picking specialized winter snow tires of the same type, size, and load index for better control and safety is probably one of the best tips for driving in snow.

• We recommend using radial tires in areas of mild snowfall.

• Studded tires are the best option for heavy snowfall and sleet on roads.

• Optimum tire pressure ensures adequate traction between vehicle and road and keeps in mind that pressure drops by nearly 1 psi for every 5°Celsius drop in temperature.

• Check wheel alignment.

Exhaust system

• Ensure that there are no leaks in the exhaust system.
• If stuck in the snow, slightly open the windows of your car and keep the engine running.
• The exhaust pipe should be clear at all times. Blocked pipe results in carbon monoxide seeping into the car interior which can prove fatal.

Heating/cooling system

• Keep the radiator in top condition.
• A sufficient amount of car engine coolant or antifreeze rated for the coldest weather is a must for driving safely in the snow.
• Functional defrosters ensure good visibility through the front and back windscreens.

Windshield wipers

• Replace worn-out wipers.

Fuel

• A full tank is the most important factor in how to make a travel plan. Never take a chance as one might not find a gas station for miles in unexplored territory.

SOME TIPS IF YOU ARE DRIVING IN THE SNOW FOR THE FIRST TIME

Things you should be aware of while driving in cold conditions:-

• Keep the seat belt buckled at all times.
• Do not speed. Bear in mind that  Black ice is invisible. Reduce your speed while approaching intersections covered with ice or snow.
• Drive with low-beam headlights on to make your vehicle more visible.
• Keep a safe distance from the vehicle ahead of you. Did you know that stopping distance on an icy road is double that of stopping on a dry one?
• Stay in your lane. 
• Slowing down when about to cross the bridge can be icy even when there is no ice on the ground surface. Be patient and pass other cars only when it is safe to do so.
• Don’t drive if you are tired.
• Warm up your vehicle prior to the start of the trip. It helps in decreasing moisture condensing on the inside of the windshield and windows.

TRAVEL KIT FOR WINTER EMERGENCY PREPAREDNESS

• Spare tires.
• Tow rope.
• Snow shovel.
• Ice scraper.
• SOS Flares or emergency lights.
• Fuel line de-icer, methanol.
• Flashlight and extra batteries.
• Blanket.
• First aid kit.
•  Food and water.

Contact advance towing service if you find yourself stranded or have faced some vehicular malfunction. We pride ourselves on providing the best services at the best prices.