Driving in the winter can be a challenge, so it makes sense to be properly prepared for every eventuality that might occur on the road.
Roadworthy
Firstly, you’ll want to make sure your vehicle is properly roadworthy.
You should make sure that your brakes, belts and hoses, engine, exhaust system, fluids and filters are in good working order and ready to handle the cold.
Make sure to check your car battery too. In cold temperatures your car requires more current from the battery to start the engine.
Replacing your windscreen wipers and checking your wiper fluid will help to keep your windscreen free of ice, snow, salt and mud.
The heater and defroster should be in good working condition for passenger comfort and driver visibility.
Check your tires have sufficient tread to last the winter and that there are no areas of uneven wear. Tires should be properly inflated, because cold air causes the pressure to drop by around 1 psi per 10 degrees, potentially making the car harder to handle.
Cold weather can cause your oil to thicken, so make sure that you have fresh oil to keep your car running as smoothly as possible.
Emergency Kit
Motoring organisations suggest you carry an emergency kit of supplies. These should include an ice scraper as well as de-icer. You should have warm clothing as well as a travel blanket. A fully-charged mobile phone is a must.
Food and handy snacks are always welcome, as is a tire inflator, an emergency warning triangle, a snow shovel, jump leads, a tow rope, hi-visibility clothing, spare bulbs, a first aid kit and a torch. Some people also suggest taking a bag of cat litter for improving tyre traction if you get stuck.
But perhaps the most important thing to have is proper breakdown cover. Trusted Bear offers the best pawsible support for drivers, with roadside assistance, 24/7, 365 days, nationwide UK recovery and full European assistance, with our friendly Breakdown Recovery Specialists always on hand to help you out. Use our Contact Form or go to our Products page to find out more.