Winter is a difficult time for a car, rain, snow, ice, fog and strong winds create difficult driving conditions. The most important thing for all drivers is to prepare your car as best as possible.

A thorough check of the pressure in all four tires is the first thing they should do, and it is important to determine tire wear. The tread depth should not be less than 1.6 mm, while the sides should not have the slightest deformation. If the lines are visible, the tire must be replaced immediately. If there is uneven wear on the outsole, then the problem is with the suspension.

For mountainous areas, mainly in Northern Greece, where the temperature drops below zero, winter tires should be installed on the car, which behave much better on snow, ice and at low temperatures.

In our car, we must have an ice scraper, a rag or even an anti-icing spray for the locks, chains or snow covers in case of snow, battery cables, a blanket, a flashlight and gloves.

When the temperature drops low enough, usually old batteries cannot provide the necessary electricity to start. To prevent the driver from getting into an unpleasant situation, it is good to visit a mechanic who will diagnose the condition of the battery, while charging the battery well to enter the winter with a high charge level.

In winter, there are many elements that affect visibility on the road. This means that we control the lighting. If the bulbs in the front and rear lights or turn signals are not working properly, they need to be replaced. The correct condition of the wipers is necessary so that the driver can see clearly through the windshield. Wipers need to be changed once a year, and they must always be kept clean to do their job properly.

When the temperature is low, it is important for the driver to check the different levels of the car. Engine oil should be at the manufacturer’s recommended level to reduce friction between engine parts. If the level is low, then top up. The coolant must be changed regularly and topped up with antifreeze. The windshield washer system must be filled and the water must withstand low temperatures. For this case, there are special antifreezes.

The radiator must be in good condition. After all, not having heating while driving is not very convenient and safe. In addition, heating is a key element in windshield defrosting.

It’s good that the air conditioner works every 15 days for 15 minutes. This will protect the tightness of the air conditioning circuit and keep the pipe connections in good condition. It is noted that with air conditioning, the windshield thaws faster, thanks to its dehumidification function.

Vehicles with diesel engines may have trouble starting at very low temperatures. Due to its composition, diesel is particularly sensitive to cold. Thus, paraffin crystals may form and clog the filter. Even if the diesel engine available on the market is suitable for winter conditions, the driver needs to park his car in a place less prone to cold. Ideally, park in a closed area. However, if there is no covered area, the tank should be as full as possible, as this will delay the cooling of the diesel fuel.

It’s good that in winter the car does not stand still for a long time. Running the engine for a few minutes every few days keeps the battery in good condition.

However, in addition to preparing the car for difficult weather conditions, the driver had to undergo maintenance in order to be sure that his vehicle was in excellent condition. General maintenance will also help with fuel economy.

Finally, the storage area must have spare parts in good condition, as well as all necessary tools, a triangle, a fire extinguisher, and documents must be valid.

Source: RES-EMI