How’s Your Car Coping With The Snow?

We all know how essential it is to keep your car in tip top shape for the winter – have you been caught out by the snow?

The early onset this year means many of us might not yet have got round to giving the car a winter overhaul, so I thought a few tips might be a good idea, both on maintenance and safe driving in bad conditions. You don’t want to end up on You Tube, do you, with everyone laughing while you slide out of control?

• Always clear the snow away before setting off – it’s not just your visibility that will be impaired, but other motorists too, as flies off your car and onto the one behind you. Not only is it an offence in some countries not to do this, it’s also pretty stupid.

• If the car isn’t being used, clear the snow and ice away from the windscreen wipers and pull them gently away to stop them freezing to the windscreen.

• Warming the engine up extends the lifecycle; leave it idle for a while.

• Anti freeze, fuel, windscreen wash, oil – ensure they’re all topped up.

• Leave plenty of time! Nothing worse than an idiot driver speeding (or trying to) in slush or ice!

• Pull away in second gear to avoid wheel spin. As long as the wheels are turning you can change direction!

• Plan your journey – try to avoid hills! But if you can’t, leave plenty of room between you and those in front, just in case they slip back.

• Pack some essentials – food, extra warm and waterproof clothing/blankets/drinks.

So whereabouts in Faversham are the experts to keep you moving? Check our directory for your local garage and motoring services.