Top tips to keep your vehicle worry-free this winter
We all know that at winter time our vehicles need a little bit of extra TLC to help keep them safe and reliable so, this is your JCT600 VLS friendly reminder that as dark evenings begin to set in earlier and the weather is getting frostier it’s time to do your annual winter checks,
Your car might be running just great, but as snowy and icy weather conditions begin to set in, we recommend that you get acquainted with our Prepare, Plan, Drive tips below to help avoid potential weather related accidents during these colder months.
• Regularly check your tyres are in good
condition, correctly inflated and have
a good tread depth
• Keep your vehicle well maintained with
an up to date MOT and services as well
as regular visual checks
• Always keep an ice-scraper and de-icer
in your vehicle
• Complete a winter check of your cars
fluids, including your oil and top up your
windscreen washer bottle and radiator
with anti-freeze. Many garages offer a
winter check if you are not confident of
checking your vehicle.
• Pack a winter driving kit in case of
emergencies. This should include a torch,
spade, blanket, warm clothing, suitable
footwear, food and drink, first aid kit and
a warning triangle
• Keep a pair of sunglasses in your car to
avoid the dazzle from low winter sun
• Before starting a journey you should
ensure all snow is cleared from your
windscreen, windows, roof, lights,
mirrors and number plate, you could be
breaking the law if not
• Use your air conditioning to demist your
windows ensuring all round visibility
• Allow extra time for your journey
• Check the weather forecast before your
travel across all points on your route
• Plan your route before you set off using
main roads as these are more likely
to be gritted
• Check your phone has enough charge
to complete your journey in case of
an emergency
• Avoid hills, inclines and sharp bends
wherever possible
• Only drive if essential
• Never set off when it’s snowing heavily
• Use the highest gear possible to prevent
wheel spin
• Avoid harsh acceleration and braking
• Drive to the conditions of the road
• Take corners slowly and carry out
manoeuvres slowly and with extra care
• Brake gently to prevent your wheels
from locking
• Stopping distances can be 10 times
greater in snow and icy conditions
• Never assume roads have been gritted
• Stay well back from the vehicle in front
as snow and spray make it difficult to see
• Stopping will be more important
than starting.
