What to check when the temperature starts to drop
As the temperature drops and winter approaches, it’s crucial to prepare yourself and your vehicle for the challenges of colder weather. At Automotive Parts Distribution (APD), we prioritise your safety on the road. In this blog post, we’ll discuss essential safety products and driving tips to help you navigate winter conditions with confidence. From visibility-enhancing accessories to winter driving essentials, APD has you covered.
Do you need Winter Tyres?
Investing in a set of winter tyres is one of the best ways to improve your vehicle’s traction on snow and ice. Winter tyres are specifically designed with softer rubber compounds and tread patterns that provide superior grip in cold weather, when temperatures drop below 7°C.
Are Snow Chains Helpful?
When encountering extreme winter conditions, snow chains can provide added traction and stability. They are particularly useful in hilly areas or when driving on unploughed roads. APD recommends using snow chains that are suitable for different tyre sizes and vehicle types, ensuring you can tackle even the toughest winter conditions.
Advantages of Ice Scrapers and De-Icers
Clearing ice and frost from your vehicle’s windows and mirrors is essential for visibility. APD provides a selection of ice scrapers and de-icers to help you quickly and effectively remove ice and frost from your car. Choose a sturdy ice scraper with a brush or squeegee attachment for efficient clearing, and keep a quality de-icer on hand for those extra chilly mornings.
Making use of Winter Fluids
Using winter-specific fluids can help your vehicle perform optimally in colder temperatures. Consider topping up your car’s antifreeze ready for the cold weather, be prepared and keep a 1 litre antifreeze top up at home . Additionally, using a windscreen washer fluid with a low freezing point ensures clear vision by preventing the fluid from freezing on your windscreen. APD stocks a variety of winter fluids to meet your vehicle’s specific requirements.
5 Winter Driving Tips
Besides having the right safety products, adopting safe driving practices is crucial during winter. Here are some tips to keep in mind:
Slow down
Reduce your speed and increase your following distance to allow for safe braking on slippery roads.
Smooth acceleration and braking
Apply gentle pressure on the accelerator and brake pedals to avoid skidding.
Be cautious on bridges and overpasses
These areas tend to freeze before other parts of the road, so exercise extra caution when crossing them.
Use your headlights
Keep your headlights on at all times to improve your visibility and make your vehicle more visible to others.
Plan your journeys
Check weather and traffic conditions before setting off, and allow extra time for your trips during inclement weather.
Conclusion
Preparing for colder weather involves equipping your vehicle with the right safety products and adopting safe driving practices. At Automotive Parts Distribution (APD), we offer a wide range of winter safety products, including ice scrapers, de-icer, antifreeze and more. By following these tips and using the quality products available at APD, you can ensure a safer and more comfortable driving experience throughout the winter. Visit apd.co.uk today to explore our product range and stay safe winter on the road!