Winter Driving Tips

Five ways to stay safe on the North West roads this winter

Winter driving can be challenging, especially when temperatures drop, daylight hours shorten, and icy roads become more common. Whether you’re commuting around the North West, heading off to see family further afield, or tackling early morning school runs, preparing your car for winter is essential. 

To help local drivers stay safe and confident on the road, our team has shared five practical winter car tips that can make all the difference when driving in cold and icy conditions. 

1. Plan ahead and carry a winter emergency kit 

Planning your journey is always important, but winter weather means being prepared for the unexpected. Snow, ice or breakdowns can happen quickly, so keeping a winter emergency kit in your car is a smart move. 

Your winter car kit should include: 

·  

Having these essentials to hand can make a big difference if you’re delayed or stranded in cold conditions. Find out more.

2. Clear windows and mirrors before every journey 

Driving with fogged or icy windows is dangerous – and illegal. While scraping ice may feel like a winter chore, there are ways to make it easier. 

Parking your car overnight with the windscreen facing east can help, as the morning sun naturally melts frost. Alternatively, using a windscreen cover or full car cover can protect your vehicle from overnight ice and snow, saving time on frosty mornings. 

It goes without saying, but always make sure all windows, mirrors and lights are fully clear before setting off. 

3. Check your tyres regularly 

Your tyres are your only contact with the road, making them especially important in winter driving conditions. The legal minimum tread depth in the UK is 1.6mm, but for winter driving it’s recommended to have at least 3mm of tread to improve grip on wet, icy or slippery roads. 

A quick way to check tread depth is the 20p coin test. Insert a 20p coin into the tyre’s groove – if the outer rim of the coin is still visible, it’s time to replace the tyre. 

Also remember that cold weather can reduce tyre pressure, so check inflation levels regularly throughout winter. 

4. Check fluids, oil and filters 

Cold temperatures put extra strain on your car’s engine and systems, so it’s important to keep fluids topped up and in good condition. 

·       Ensure coolant is filled to the correct level and properly mixed to prevent freezing 

·       Use a winter-grade windscreen washer fluid that won’t freeze and can cut through grime 

·       If your car is due an oil change, have this done before winter sets in 

·       Consider replacing the cabin air filter, which can become clogged with pollen and debris from warmer months 

These simple checks help keep your car running smoothly and reliably throughout winter. 

5. Take advantage of free windscreen and tyre repairs*

Winter weather increases the risk of small windscreen chips turning into large, dangerous cracks due to freezing temperatures. Potholes and poor road conditions can also cause tyre damage. 

At Sytner Volvo, drivers can benefit from a free windscreen and tyre damage repair service, regardless of the age of their vehicle. A qualified Volvo technician will assess the damage, and in many cases, repairs can be completed quickly and efficiently – at no cost. 

Stay Safe on the Road This Winter 

By following these winter car tips, you can reduce the risks associated with cold weather driving and enjoy greater peace of mind throughout the season. 

For more winter driving advice, or to book a free tyre or windscreen repair, contact us to book an appointment – we’re here to help!