Vehicle Preparation: Snow And Ice

Wednesday June 17, 2009

Heading to a winter wonderland like Thredbo and Perisher in NSW or Falls Creek and Mt Hotham in Victoria can be an exciting time, and even if you're not planning to strap on some skis, chances are you are in for some colder than normal conditions. However, winter woollies and the snow reports aren't the only thing you need to worry about this winter.

If you are planning to drive your vehicle in snow, ice or particularly cold conditions, it is important to take the appropriate precautions to make sure it is equipped, prepared and safe to drive in a variety of circumstances. It could save you a lot of money on unnecessary repair and recovery costs - not to mention the danger of a vehicle breakdown in extreme weather.

Mechanical Considerations

Preparing a vehicle for winter is surprisingly easy, and a few small considerations can help ensure your safety on the road. Firstly, let's look at the mechanical preparations you will need to take when travelling in cold weather:

• Vehicle Service - Make sure a professional mechanic has performed winter servicing on your vehicle in the appropriate time frame. That means fresh motor oil, and if it hasn't been done in a long time, clutch, diff and gearbox oil. Your brake and power steering fluids should also be at the appropriate level. Your mechanic will be able to help point out other irregularities.

• Anti-freeze - One of the most important reminders is to put anti-freeze in the radiator every two years. If you didn't do it last year, it needs to be done this year. This stops coolant from freezing, which could cause a potential engine meltdown. Frozen coolant could also damage other engine components and even crack the engine. Don't forget to add an appropriate anti-freeze product to other water stores, such as the windscreen washers.

• Tyres - Old, worn or damaged rubber will not react well to extreme cold. You would be foolish to place your trust in sub-standard tyres in these conditions.

• Windscreen Wipers - Old wipers are known to fall apart in the event of icy conditions, which can be detrimental to your driving visibility.

• Check Belts - Cooling fan belts, timing belts and other belts often have an amount of rubber, which means they are also vulnerable to faster-than-normal wear if plunged into freezing conditions. Make sure your belt is in good order.

• Battery - Cold weather can aggravate a lot of existing conditions, and being stuck without a starter can be downright dangerous in the cold. If your battery has been worse for wear, don't trust it in the cold - get it replaced today.

• Heating/Window Defrosters - This one is a double whammy. On the one hand, you don't want your windscreen freezing over and hindering visibility, and likewise you also want to retain vehicle comfort.

• Lights - This comes down to vehicle safety, and is a pretty obvious one. Make sure your vehicle lights are working correctly before a trip to the snow.

Snow Driving

Once you are confident your car is mechanically sound, there are a few other tips you should consider before your next expedition into cold, snowy or icy weather. Let's take a look at how you can maximise your safety and make sure your trip this winter is a successful one.

• Essential Gear - You should carry plenty of liquids in case you become stranded, food, blankets and a first aid kit. The list grows when you are travelling further from civilisation.

• Off-Road Recovery Gear - If you are heading off the beaten track (such as in a 4WD), or are in an area where traffic is at a minimum, make sure you carry appropriate recovery gear. This could include snatch straps, jacks and appropriate communication gear.

• Snow Chains - Snow chains are normally recommended for all vehicles in snow and ice, and they are mandatory in most national parks for most vehicles. Normally, snow chains are available to hire if you do not wish to purchase them outright.

• Handbrake - Don't apply the handbrake in snow or ice. Moisture can freeze the cables, so instead chock the wheels and leave the car in gear.

• Safe Driving - It goes without saying, but you should take extra care in the snow. That means slower driving, softer braking and lighter acceleration. Don't tailgate other vehicles, and use fog lights where possible.

• Loss Of Traction - In short, if your rear wheels start to skid, back off the accelerator and steer in the direction you want the car to travel. If the front wheels skid, back off the accelerator, gently brake and don't try to steer until the wheels regain traction. Then, you can steer to safety.

Following these tips will help you prepare your vehicle for winter, and keep you safe in snow and icy conditions. Speak to your mechanic about how they can help you prepare your vehicle for the snow, and never undertake a snow driving expedition without the appropriate research and preparation. Mechanics.com.au - your online resource for winter vehicle preparation.

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