Scotland’s winters tend to be cold, wet and windy. Most of us only see some ice and snow so unless you live in a remote area of the Highlands, we don’t tend worry about driving in the winter. However, we believe there are some things you should do to prepare for winter even if you live in a Scottish city. After all, you don’t want to break-down on a cold dark night far away from home.
Winter Vehicle Checks
- Vehicle Battery
Vehicle battery performance starts to deteriorate after 3 years and they have to work harder in the winter. Lower temperatures make them less efficient combined with an increase in use for tasks such has headlights and heating can result in a flat battery. Nobody wants to start their day by discovering their vehicle won’t start! The battery’s life can be shorter if your vehicle mostly drives short distances and never gets a chance to fully charge on regular long journeys.
If your car’s battery is over 5 years old, then we recommend getting a new one fitted at your local garage before winter. Other signs that you need to get your battery checked or replaced are that it sometimes struggles to start especially on a colder morning or you have noticed the stop-start function has stopped working when you are stopped at traffic lights. It may be that you simply need to take your vehicle for a long drive but it is worth getting it checked especially if you need your vehicle for work.
- Tyres
Unless you drive on rural roads that are prone to ice and snow, it is unlikely that you will need to change to winter tyres, however, it is important to have tyres that are in good condition. Our wet climate increases the risk of aquaplaning but having tyres with a good amount of tread can reduced this risk and make your journey safer. - Lights
Clean, functioning lights are essential during the darker winter months. Even if you don’t drive at night, you will need your lights switched on during the day in Scotland, especially in December and January when it is raining. Of course, they must all work but we also recommend keeping them clean so that other road users can see you and you can see them. It doesn’t take long for dirty road spray to make them filthy. A quick wipe can make all the difference to your visibility. - Windscreen
To drive legally on the road you must have a clear windscreen, so always ensure it has demisted and is clear of any ice before you drive. Check that your windscreen wipers are in good working order ahead of winter’s rainy weather and ensure your windscreen wash is full and contains screen wash. Air Con can play a big part in absorbing moisture in the atmosphere so use it in the winter as well as the summer – and service the air con system every 24 months.
- Oil
While you are carrying out your winter checks, ensure your oil is at the correct level. You should do this regularly all year round, but it is even more important during the winter months as you don’t want to break down on a cold, dark winter’s day or night.
If you get your car serviced annually, it is more likely that a quick check finds that your vehicle is in good working order and ready for winter.
Take note of any advisories on MOT certs annually as they are noted for your safety, so don’t keep putting them off.
Emergency Winter Supplies
Ensuring your vehicle is stocked with some emergency supplies is a good idea, especially if you are going to be driving long distances or leaving your vehicle in a work vehicle park all day.
- An ice scraper is essential to prevent you sitting for a long time in your work vehicle park until the windscreen has cleared. Some de-icer will also help speed up the process.
- Keeping a blanket in the vehicle will be a very welcome addition if you break-down and have a long wait for a break down service.
- Also, we recommend always taking warm clothing with you even when you don’t think you will need it. The weather can change dramatically from morning to evening. A Hi-Viz vest or jacket is always a great addition to keep in your boot space in case of roadside emergency / breakdown.
- A torch can be handy, although maybe not as necessary as in the past, now that all smartphones have great torches.
- If your vehicle is prone to breaking down or you have decided not to invest in a new battery, then keep some jump leads in your vehicle.
- Include a shovel, if you drive in places that often get snow.
- A supply of water and snacks may be welcome if you drive long distances from home.
