The winter season welcomes the most hazardous environment for driving. Snow and ice can be on the roads that may make it difficult to impossible to drive. Drivers are expected to have a higher level of awareness whenever they drive in these conditions, but all the techniques can be meaningless if the car itself is not prepared to tackle the risky weather. Your car should be as prepared as you are; a condition that no driver should ever compromise.
Have An Available Winter Kit In Your Trunk
In a previous article, we discussed some techniques to be able to drive safely during winter. In this article, we discuss what every driver needs to do even before driving off to the slippery and icy road. First off, every vehicle needs to have its own winter supply kit. This is like a first aid kit that should always be in the vehicle. The kit should carry the basic needs such as a flashlight, first aid kit, blankets, a radio, an extra charged cell phone, pair of gloves, ice scraper, sand for traction, and high energy snacks such as energy bars or nuts. These may look a lot, but you will definitely thank yourself when you find yourself stranded in the middle of nowhere and have your winter kit ready in the trunk.
Use Anti-Freeze
Always check your engine coolant and anti-freeze. Anti-freeze is one of the best innovations ever produced for the cold weather as it keeps your engine from freezing. Your local best buy, Wal-Mart or auto supply shop should have an anti-freeze tester for a very cheap price. Use it to check that your fluids freezing point to determine the correct coolant mix. Auto shops can also do it for you if you are not confident in checking it yourself. However method you prefer, make sure that you do not miss out in this crucial step as finding yourself stranded in the worst place possible due to freezing can be a real horror.
Use the correct Windshield Wiper Fluid
Windshield wiper fluids are not all the same. The common windshield fluids freeze during the winter season and can be more of a hassle than help. Winter windshield wiper fluids were designed to withstand freezing temperatures. Winter windshield fluids also help loosen snow and ice from the windshield, which cannot be done by ordinary wiper fluids. Check to make sure you have the correct one, if unsure, just drain the wiper fluid reservoir and fill it up with the correct fluid for winter.
The Correct Tire Pressure Is Not Optional
Using a good set of all season or winter tires may not be enough for icy and snowy road use. Do the coin test to see if your tires still have enough thread to maintain grip. Check your manual for the recommended tire pressure in driving for this season. Too much air pressure, even with a lot of thread, may not be ideal as the tires become stiff and may lessen the size of the contact patch that touches the road. Tire pressure that is too low is still not recommended as it takes the power off the wheels too. You may gain traction with low tire pressure but that would be counterproductive, as you cannot relay the cars power to the tires, resulting in you unable to roll the car.
Use extreme caution whenever you drive on icy roads. Always be aware of your surroundings and look out for cars that may be sliding or hydroplaning due to loss of traction. Keep your distance from other vehicles so you can have more time to react when needed. If in doubt, don't drive and just listen to your instincts as driving in hazardous road and weather conditions can be fatal. Lastly, stay alert at all times.
