Winter Driving Tips
10 Dec 2025
Winter Driving Tips
10 Dec 2025
Winter Driving Tips: How to Stay Safe on the Roads This Season
During the winter months, even the most confident drivers start to feel the cold-weather pressure. Slippery roads, sudden snow showers, and dark early evenings can turn a normal drive into something a bit more unpredictable.
That’s why now is the perfect time to brush up on some winter motoring tips. With a few smart checks and some simple winter driving advice, you can keep yourself safer, protect your car and stay calm no matter what the weather throws at you.
Prepare Your Car for Cold Weather
Before winter fully sets in, make sure your vehicle is ready for harsher conditions. These simple checks are really important to help avoid breakdowns in the middle of winter!
-Check your tyres: Aim for at least 3mm tread depth for improved grip. All-season or winter tyres offer even better traction.
-Top up fluids: Keep screenwash topped up with a winter mix to avoid freezing.
-Battery check: Cold weather reduces battery performance, so get it tested if it’s more than three years old.
-Lights and wipers: Ensure everything works properly and blades aren’t smearing or skipping.
Take It Slow on the Roads
Driving smoothly is one of the best pieces of winter driving advice. Sudden braking or sharp steering can easily cause skidding on icy or wet surfaces. Taking your time reduces stress and keeps you safer in winter weather.
-Accelerate gently.
-Leave extra space between you and the car ahead (double the normal stopping distance).
-Brake early and gradually.
Advice for Driving in the Snow or Ice
If snow does arrive, the roads can quickly become challenging. If conditions are extremely bad, don’t drive unless absolutely necessary. Here’s some clear advice for driving in the snow or in icy conditions:
-Start in second gear to avoid wheel spin.
-Keep speed low, especially around bends.
-Use higher gears once moving to maintain better control.
-Avoid overtaking, as snow hides ice patches.
-If you skid, ease off the accelerator and steer gently in the direction you want to go.
-Leave plenty of room between you and the car in front.
Keep an Emergency Kit in the Boot
Every winter checklist should include a small emergency pack. This can be a lifesaver if you get stuck. Some things you could include are:
-A blanket or warm clothes.
-A phone charger or power bank.
-A torch.
-Water and snacks.
-De-icer and an ice scraper.
-A high-vis jacket.
Plan Ahead and Check the Forecast
Before setting off, look at the weather and travel update. Heavy frost, road closures, or snowfall warnings may affect your journey time or route. Allow plenty of time, tell someone where you’re heading, and keep your fuel tank topped up. Don’t forget to check that all your lights are working too, including the fog lights!
Final Thoughts
Winter driving doesn’t have to be stressful. By preparing your car, driving steadily, and following solid winter motoring tips, you can stay safe even in challenging conditions. Whether it’s light frost or heavy snow, a bit of planning and patience makes all the difference.
If your car is really struggling, it might be worth considering an upgrade, especially if you live in an area that’s prone to bad driving conditions! We work with a trusted panel of lenders who offer financing for a range of needs, even for those with bad credit.
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Autodosh is a credit broker, not a lender.
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