Top tips for safer winter driving

Shorter days and colder temperatures, not to mention heavy rain, snow, ice, fog and low sun. Is it any wonder that driving in winter is more hazardous?

However, while you can’t predict the weather, you can take sensible steps to improve safety on the road, from checking your car thoroughly to how you drive it.

There are seven key things to check on your car before driving in winter, especially if you are travelling a long distance. Work through this list before you set off.

• Battery: The car battery needs to work harder during the winter, so ensure it is regularly checked.
• Tyres: Make sure there is at least 2mm of tread depth on the tyres, preferably more. Consider investing in cold weather/all-season tyres, which are more effective in cold weather, not just in the snow.
• Cooling system: Add anti-freeze into your cooling system, but remember to use the appropriate strength of the formula.
• Wipers and washers: Use high-strength screen wash and replace damaged or faulty wiper blades. Never use the wipers to clear ice from the windscreen.
• Defrosting: Do not pour boiling water onto the windscreen – it may crack. Instead, use an ice scraper and/or a can of de-icer. Remember to clear all areas of glass, including the door mirrors and lights.
• Lights: Check that all lights are working, including fog lights and reversing lights.
• Roof and windows: Clear all snow and ice from the roof and windows before setting off.

Wiseman Motor Services offers high quality maintenance to cars, 4×4 and commercial vehicles (up to 5 tonnes).

We can cater for new vehicles inside manufacturer’s warranty and we offer a great alternative to main dealerships. We have all the necessary expertise and equipment to carry out the required maintenance to your car, van or 4×4.

We will maintain your vehicle in line with manufacturer’s recommendations, using genuine parts or original equipment quality replacement parts according to vehicle requirements and your instructions.