Top Tips for Winter Driving

Driving in the winter is a bit more complicated than driving in the summer. Here are our top tips to get you through the frosty season safely:

• Give yourself lots of time. Leave sooner than you normally would. Factor in time to defrost or clear your windows, drive slowly and be ready for any challenges you encounter. Stay up to date on road conditions before you leave and plan your route.
• Make sure you have winter or winter approved tires for your vehicle. In the province of British Columbia, there are mandatory tire requirements depending on the roads you’re travelling. We can help you to get the right tires for your vehicle. Check your tire pressure regularly.
• Leave plenty of distance between you and the automobile in front of you. It’s also a good idea to avoid using your cruise control feature if you have it. Brake slowly and evenly in icy conditions.
• Bring your car in for a maintenance check-up. During the winter driving months, everything should be working optimally, especially your battery, heating system, wiper blades, vehicle lights and brakes. We’ll make sure everything is running properly. You’ll also want to make sure all of your fluids are topped up.
• Have an emergency kit in the vehicle along with winter-friendly footwear, blanket and a small shovel.
• Make sure your gas tank is full. It’s a good idea at any time of year to make sure the tank doesn’t fall below a ¼ of a tank full.
• Don’t forget to make sure your cell phone is charged and that you bring it with you.

Although winter driving takes a bit more preparation and time, you can take steps to get you to your destination safely. Feel free to stop in at Gary’s Auto Repair Langley so we can help with winter tires or automobile maintenance. If you have any questions about getting your vehicle on the road for winter driving, give us a call at (604) 541-1818 or book an appointment online.