With the UK currently experiencing freezing temperatures, many drivers are being urged to carry out essential vehicle checks and adjustments to reduce the risk of breakdowns and accidents during icy winter conditions. The UK has already experienced flurries of snow in the last week as well as the chaos of Storm Goretti, however it's been reported that blizzards lasting three days are on the cards later this month.
Many people take to social media sites such as Reddit to ask for tips on how to prepare their car for winter, especially when there's heavy snow and ice, however, it's important to get expert advice.
Andy Watt, Group Vice President for Mercedes-Benz at Stratstone, has shared a series of practical winter driving tips covering key safety areas including tyre grip, battery health, visibility, winter kits and cold weather preparation.
"Winter driving conditions can catch all drivers off guard, including the most experienced," said Watt. "Freezing temperatures, wet roads, and darker driving conditions can all increase the risk of breakdowns and accidents, and so you should take just a few minutes to check your battery, fluids, tyres and lights before setting off. "
He added: "By doing so, you can significantly reduce the chance of breaking down and potentially getting stranded.”
Although the legal minimum tread depth is 1.66mm, drivers should aim for at least 3mm in winter, according to the motoring expert. He said: "Deeper tread helps your car have better grip in wet, icy, and snowy conditions, which can dramatically reduce stopping distances.
"Cold weather can cause tyre pressures to drop quickly, so you should never forget to check as this affects both safety and fuel economy.”
Front-wheel drive handles snow relatively well, but rear-wheel drive vehicles can sometimes really struggle, according to Watt. He says: "In those cases, adding weight to the boot or using snow chains on rear-wheels can help improve traction and stability."
“Battery failures are one of the most common causes of winter breakdowns," states Watt. "Not only does the cold weather make your engine harder to start, but you’re also using more power for heating, lighting, and your wipers.
"If your battery is over four years old, it’s worth having it tested or replaced before the temperature really drops to get ahead."
One of the biggest risks in winter is frozen coolant, according to the driving expert, which he says can 'lead to major engine damage'.
He recommends: "Coolant should be topped up and mixed 50/50 with antifreeze during colder months. Dirty roads and spray mean you'll be using screenwash a lot more often too, so don’t forget to check this."
If your journey is essential and there’s a risk of snow or ice, having a winter kit in the car is a smart move. Watt says: "Items like blankets, a torch, a shovel, snacks, water, and a hi-vis vest can make a huge difference if you're stuck or you break down in poor conditions. It’s really important to be prepared for the unexpected.:
In winter, visibility is already compromised by weather and shorter days, so it’s even more important that your lights are clean, bright, and working properly. The expert states: "A blown bulb is not just a safety hazard, but it can also lead to a failed MOT or a police stop. Carrying spare bulbs and checking your lights regularly is a simple way to stay safe and legal."
Watt says: "Every winter we see drivers pouring boiling water on their windscreens to clear ice, but this can lead to your windscreen cracking instantly, leaving you with a repair bill of several hundred pounds.
"Instead, you should always look to use a scraper and de-icer spray, or start the car a few minutes early with the heater on low. These methods are safer, cheaper, and protect your windscreen from any damage."