Winter Driving advice from the RAC

Winter Driving advice

Check your windscreen wipers before you start your journey
Make sure any auto wiper control is switched off before turning the ignition on as this could blow the wiper control fuse if they are frozen to the screen. Your wipers need to be in good working order so you’re able to clean your windscreen effectively.

Pack for the worst
Be prepared for every eventuality by ensuring that your car is equipped with the following: demisting pad, torch (wind-up so you don’t run out of battery), a hi-vis vest to make you visible if you break down, a blanket to keep you warm, some food, a drink, spare screenwash, de-icer, ice scraper, blanket, shovel, phone charger, map, a first aid kit, a warning triangle, some jump leads, a spade and a square of carpet that you can use to put under your drive wheels should you get stuck in the snow. Alternatively, you can buy RAC Recovery Track which will get you out of the snow as well as mud and sand.

The most important thing to take with you before driving in snow is a charged mobile phone with the phone number of your breakdown provider stored in it so you can always call for help.

Check your tyres
Check tyres for adequate tread. Poor tyres will not grip when driving on snow and ice.

If you live in an area where snow is common it might be worth changing to winter tyres with deeper tread.

If conditions are really bad you might want to consider the use of snow socks or even snow chains.

Check your screenwash
Use a good quality screenwash that protects down to at least -35 to prevent the water from freezing. If you don’t, your windscreen wipers could be rendered useless in extreme conditions - if you are unsure, you can check and top up your screenwash

Give yourself more time for your journey
Allow for more time than you normally would before you leave to clear car windows, mirrors, lights and the top of your roof of snow before setting off, driving with snow on you car could result in you breaking the law.

You will also need to de-ice your windscreen - which is a vital part of winter driving. Pay attention to these tips to keep your windscreen clear.

Knowing how to demist your windscreen in double-quick time can be equally as important.

It’s also a good idea to carry a lock de-icer with you to clear your lock. If your locks do get frozen, try warming the key or spraying de-icer or an oil-based lubricant into the lock.

The following checks will also be time consuming so it is worth factoring them in too before you set off.