Winter can be one of the most challenging seasons to drive. Extreme weather can include heavy snowfall, freezing fog, reduced visibility, slippery road conditions and more. But it's also a time when many of us are still very busy — especially in the run-up to Christmas and the New Year.
While it's important to be well-prepared and take all the necessary safety precautions for winter driving, it doesn't have to be difficult or time-consuming.
Using the simple but highly effective tips below, you can prepare your car for the challenges of winter and enjoy a trouble-free driving season.
TIP 1: Book in advance
With the busy festive season of Halloween, Bonfire Night and Christmas approaching, demand for services may be higher than ever. This also applies to all things automotive.
If you urgently need a repair or service, consider booking early to avoid disappointment. Many garages are currently experiencing busy periods and may be considering weeks of waiting.
This is also the case with driving tests - which have seen long delays since the lockdown, with social distancing making it difficult or even impossible to pass the test.
Leaving a problem too late, such as a problem that then makes the car unsafe to drive, can be a major inconvenience. To avoid disappointment, try to book the necessary services and appointments well in advance.
TIP 2: Limit your driving
If possible, it may be useful to limit winter driving to only essential journeys.
Sticking to basic routes can be safer and also more environmentally friendly. In this way, you will not contribute to further traffic jams or risk, for example, dangerous icing.
If you use your car for work or business deliveries, consider delegating the task or outsourcing where possible. For example, more businesses than ever are turning to professional couriers to reduce their own driving.
Reducing the number of trips – or at least driving more fuel-efficiently – is a great way to reduce your overall expenses and keep your winter budget in check. This is particularly important due to certain seasonal extra costs, such as Christmas shopping and increased heating bills.
TIP 3: Make minor repairs
It can be tempting to skip the car service until we know we have a serious problem that needs to be fixed. However, early action can be safer and more cost-effective in the long run.
Winter weather often exacerbates existing complications. Small problems can become big problems in a short period of time, and at a very busy time of year you will need service urgently.
You can avoid this problem by making a realistic assessment of what's currently bothering you with your car - unusual noises, problems or a cracked windscreen, for example - and then booking in with a reputable garage to fix it.
Catching smaller problems is a great way to reduce the likelihood of a bigger problem later when the weather turns bad.
TIP 4: Be prepared
There is no better way to deal with an emergency or inconvenience than to be prepared for it in advance. Any change of season—and perhaps especially winter—is a great time to take steps to prepare your car.
This can include making sure you have up-to-date cover in the event of a breakdown or roadside assistance in an emergency, as well as packing your own essential kit. The kit can include antifreeze, blankets, a flashlight, a cell phone charger, water, and other details about your emergency shelter.
It may also pay to check all important routes in advance in case of diversions or accidents, and allow yourself extra time to travel in case of bad weather. This can be especially important for family visits or Santa's Grotto!
Plan ahead, allow yourself extra time, and you'll be prepared for any eventuality.
TIP 5: Protect your car
Winter season can be punishing for a car. Damage can be caused by excessive moisture, frost, rust, and more.
Take extra steps to prepare and protect your car where possible - such as investing in a car cover, using a garage or even just safe parking - such as away from trees in windy conditions.
You can also invest in specialist winter tires with the safest tread depth, incorporate a regular inspection process into your routine to spot any problems, and also make sure you clean your lights and windscreen of any debris.
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