UK motorists urged to make tyre change before | Tech News

With the UK at the moment gripped by freezing temperatures, motorists are being urged to perform important vehicle checks and modifications to minimise the risk of breakdowns and collisions during icy winter climate.

The nation has already seen snow flurries over the previous week, together with the disruption attributable to Storm Goretti, however experiences recommend a ‘450-mile wall of snow’ is on its approach later this month too.

Social media platforms comparable to Reddit are flooded with requests for advice on winterising automobiles, notably when heavy snow and ice are forecast, however professional steering is important.

Andy Watt, Group Vice President for Mercedes-Benz at Stratstone, has outlined a vary of sensible winter driving suggestions masking essential security points together with tyre grip, battery situation, visibility, winter emergency kits and cold climate readiness.

Take a take a look at his winter driving advice under. 

Make sure you do winter vehicle checks

“Winter driving conditions can catch all drivers off guard, including the most experienced,” stated 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.”

Tyre security and changes in cold climate

Whilst the legal minimal tread depth stands at 1.66mm, motorists ought to goal no less than 3mm during winter months, the motoring professional advises. He defined: “Deeper tread helps your car have better grip in wet, icy, and snowy conditions, which can dramatically reduce stopping distances.

“Cold climate could cause tyre pressures to drop rapidly, so you need to always remember to test as this impacts each security and fuel financial system.”

How drivetrains can affect winter handling

Front-wheel drive copes with snow reasonably well, whilst rear-wheel drive vehicles can sometimes struggle considerably, according to Watt. He explains: “In these circumstances, including weight to the boot or utilizing snow chains on rear-wheels can help improve traction and stability.”

Battery checks ahead of cold weather

“Battery failures are one of essentially the most common causes of winter breakdowns,” Watt states. “Not solely does the cold climate make your engine more durable to begin, however you are additionally utilizing more energy 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.”

Checking fluids and the use of antifreeze

One of the best dangers during winter is frozen coolant, the driving professional warns, which he says can ‘lead to main engine harm’.

He advises: “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.”

Packing a winter necessities package

If you will need to journey and there is a probability of encountering snow or ice, it is smart to have a winter package in your car. Watt advises: “Items like blankets, a torch, a shovel, snacks, water, and a hi-vis vest can make a significant difference if you’re stranded or your vehicle breaks down in adverse conditions. It’s crucial to be prepared for unforeseen circumstances.”

Checking visibility and lighting

During winter, visibility is commonly diminished due to climate situations and shorter sunlight hours, making it even more important that your lights are clean, shiny, and absolutely purposeful. The professional warns: “A faulty bulb is not only a safety risk but could also result in a failed MOT or being pulled over by the police. Carrying spare bulbs and regularly checking your lights is an easy way to stay safe and within the law.”

Safely de-icing windscreens

Watt cautions: “Every winter we see drivers using boiling water to defrost their windscreens, but this can cause the windscreen to crack immediately, resulting in a repair bill of several hundred pounds.

“Instead, you need to at all times use a scraper and de-icer spray, or begin the car a couple of minutes early with the heater set to low. These strategies are safer, cheaper, and stop any harm to your windscreen.”