{"id":16572,"date":"2024-09-23T15:21:04","date_gmt":"2024-09-23T14:21:04","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/blog.stoneacremotorgroup.co.uk\/blog\/?p=16572"},"modified":"2025-01-20T15:01:40","modified_gmt":"2025-01-20T15:01:40","slug":"guide-to-winter-driving-in-the-uk","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/www.stoneacre.co.uk\/blog\/guide-to-winter-driving-in-the-uk","title":{"rendered":"Guide to Winter Driving in the UK"},"content":{"rendered":"\n

Is winter weather making your UK drives a little more treacherous? Don’t worry, you’re not alone! Our unpredictable British climate often throws up snowy surprises, icy roads, and foggy conditions. But with a little preparation and know-how, you can stay safe and keep your journey smooth.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

In this blog, we’ll provide you with essential tips and advice to help you navigate the UK’s winter roads confidently. From preparing your vehicle to understanding winter driving techniques, we’ve got you covered. So, let’s hit the road and conquer winter together!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

\"Winter<\/figure>\n\n\n\n

How To Check Your Car for Winter?<\/span><\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n

If you\u2019re planning on driving in tough winter conditions, the first question you should ask is: is this journey necessary? Making a journey in your car that isn\u2019t imperative or is one you could walk can sometimes be a risky action when the weather is adverse. If it is necessary and isn\u2019t walkable, knowing what you might be facing is important. So, check the weather reports for what\u2019s incoming whilst you\u2019re out and about, and if there are any road closures due to heavy snow.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Before setting off, we also recommend checking:<\/p>\n\n\n\n

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Tyres:<\/strong><\/h3>\n\n\n\n

Tyre pressures can drop in colder weather. This is because at cooler temperatures air becomes denser which results in a pressure drop. Therefore if you\u2019re checking and setting your tyre pressure in a warm workshop you should add around 0.2 bar (3psi) to the manufacturer\u2019s recommended pressure rating. <\/p>\n\n\n\n

It is important to keep your tyres correctly inflated to ensure that they work effectively, especially in winter when road conditions are more challenging to drive on. Wet, icy or snowy conditions increase stopping distances and can make it harder to control your vehicle; so there really is no better time to check the condition of your tyres.<\/p>\n<\/div>\n\n\n\n

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Car Battery:<\/strong><\/h3>\n\n\n\n

The cold weather can inhibit the chemical reaction that makes a battery work and as a result, the battery will lack power. On top of this in cool conditions, oil isn\u2019t as fluid as it is in summer, so the engine can be harder to start. Essentially this means not only do you potentially have less power from the battery you also need more power to start the engine.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Therefore, for ICE cars, check the battery is as charged as it can be by taking it on a long run before the bad weather hits. For plug-in hybrid cars and electric vehicles, ensuring you charge the battery to around 80% before going anywhere can help avoid running out of power mid-journey.<\/p>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n\n\n\n

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Fuel:<\/strong><\/h3>\n\n\n\n

Check how much fuel is in the car and if it\u2019s enough to not just get where you\u2019re going and back, but also enough if you get stuck or have to go a longer route.<\/p>\n<\/div>\n\n\n\n

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\"winter<\/figure>\n<\/div>\n\n\n\n
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Windscreen Wipers:<\/strong><\/h3>\n\n\n\n

If you\u2019re caught in a snow shower, your wipers will work overtime. Make sure they\u2019re in good condition and top up your screen wash for maximum visibility.<\/p>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n\n\n\n

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Windows:<\/strong><\/h3>\n\n\n\n

You\u2019ll need maximum visibility if you\u2019re caught in heavy snow, so before you set off make sure your windows are clean and clear.<\/p>\n<\/div>\n\n\n\n

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Lights:<\/strong><\/h3>\n\n\n\n

Falling snow can be as challenging as thick fog and many of the same rules apply. Ensure your lights are fully cleared before setting off.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Whilst driving, dipped headlights will be more effective than full beam and your fog lights will help with visibility. Try not to rely too much on the lights of other vehicles \u2013 using them to guide your own driving can lead to getting dangerously close.<\/p>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n\n\n\n

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Book Your Winter Car Health Check<\/polygon><\/svg><\/span><\/a><\/div>\n<\/div>\n\n\n\n
\"Winter<\/figure>\n\n\n\n

What Do You Need in Your Car for Winter Driving?<\/span><\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n

When the temperatures drop and the roads become icy, it’s crucial to have your car equipped with the necessary tools and supplies. Being prepared can make all the difference in ensuring a safe and comfortable winter driving experience.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

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