In the winter, we must adapt the way we drive. Cold snaps can affect both road conditions and your vehicle. You might find that the drop in temperature affects your car’s battery, or a snow flurryturns a short journey into a long waitfor the roads to clear.Whether you plan to drive home for Christmas or are simply trying to navigate the winter weather for your commute to work, it is important to be as fully prepared as possible for the season ahead.
Vehicle maintenance and winter checks
Cold weather can be the cause to make small faults worse, so it is worth running a check before you set off. This can prevent any big, potential problems later.
- Tyres
The tread depth should be at least 1.6mm by law, but there are calls to increase this minimum to 2mm and 3mm or more tends to give better grip on wet and icy surfaces.Also, make sure to check pressures against your vehicle handbook, as colder air can reduce them.
- Battery
A weak battery can failwithout warning in freezing temperatures, so if yours is more than three years old, get it tested or look at replacing it.
- Antifreeze and screen wash
Top up antifreeze and coolant to the correct levels to protect the engine from freezing, and make sure the screen wash is rated for sub-zero temperatures.
- Wipers
Make sure to replace your worn wiper blades, so that your vision remains clear in sleet and spray.
- Lights
Clean the lenses on your lights regularly and replace any dim bulbs.
Pack an emergency winter kit
If you get stuck in snow or stranded by a closed road, having an emergency kit can make the wait for recoverymanageable.
- Keepwarm
Have a blanket, glovesand spare socks in the car
- Stay visible
Add a torch with spare batteries and a hi-vis jacket to your kit. A reflective warning triangle also helps other drivers see you if you have to stop on a dark roadside.
- Include snacks
You need bottled water and non-perishable snacks to keep your energy levels up.
- Practical details
You’ll need to keep connected, so have a fully charged power bank for your phone to hand. De-icer, an ice scraper and a small shovel are also invaluable when frost or snow sets in. Having a jump lead is essential, as cold mornings can drain batteries fast.
Understand the weather, roads and your cover
Before any long journey, check the latest forecasts and weather alerts, so that you’re able to prepare in advance. If the weather warnings are severe, thinking about adjusting your route or postponing your trip.
It is important to always ensure that your car insurance policy includes breakdown cover and recovery , as towing costs can rise when demand spikes in cold weather. It is also worth checking out if your policy covers damage from snow or debris and if your excess changes for weather-related claims.
Plan your route, timing and contingency
Winter journeys take longer, not just because of the weather but because the evenings get darker earlier and traffic can slow behind gritters or snowploughs. Choose main roads over back routes, as these are gritted and cleared first.
Make sure to let someone know about your route and expected arrival time, just in case you lose signal on the way.
Try to leave earlier than usual to avoid rushing in poor visibilityand pack extra fuel just in case you get stuck.
Finally, it is most important to try and be flexible with your journey. Having a short delay or taking a small detour can make your journey feel safer on the roads during these cooler months.
