12 tips for your preparation and driving on the snow and ice

We all know that low temperatures and icy roads upset drivers while at the same time the endurance of the cars is tested. So in order to feel safer and avoid all kinds of accidents and surprises that lurk in these admittedly extreme weather conditions it is advisable to prepare earlier, by carrying out some checks before using our car. 

Preparation

• Check that our tires are in good condition and have the correct pressure as described by the manufacturer.
• If the windshield wipers are frozen, spray them with defrost spray or salt water, so when you’ll the windshield with the help of an ice scraper, your windshield wipers will come off slowly.
• If the doors and locks are frozen, it helps if you have a defrost lock spray. In any case, if the driver’s door does not open, check to open another door (e.g co-driver’s or rear door). Otherwise, push the door inwards and pull it back gently to break the ice and enter the car,
• Make sure that the radiator liquids have the right amount (must be between the Min-Max indicator) as well as there is sufficient amount of antifreeze liquid on both the radiator and the windshield liquid reservoir. It is also important to have a full deposit.
• Check that the headlights, high beams, alarms, turn signals and fog lights are working normally
• Make sure that all the equipment required by law (fire extinguisher, warning triangle, first aid kit) it is also advisable to have jumper cable, flashlight, work gloves, blanket and snow chains.

​*Caution! For point 2 & 3, never pour hot or hot water on the windows to melt the snow or the ice because it may break and injure you. 

DRIVING

• Before turning on the engine, make sure that all car electrical circuits are switched off, including the cabin lights.
• If the windshield is dim, there are at least 3 things you can do:
  • Clear it with a cloth
  • Spray it with anti-glare spray
  • Turn the air-condition to hot and use the larger scale.
• When you turn on the engine, wait for one minute to warm it up. For the first few kilometers and until the engine warms up, it is better not to exceed 3000 rpm.
• During the driving you must maintain low driving speed and keep long distance from the vehicle in front. At all times you should stir the wheel smoothly and progressively. The same applies when accelerating and braking.
• When driving on an uphill or downhill road, it is important not to stop completely as you may lose control of your vehicle.
  At sub-zero temperatures turn off the start-stop system in order to protect your car battery.
  Finally, when parking do not pull the handbrake hard, as it may stick

The most important, stay calm!