Road safety charity the IAM is offering weekly motoring tips from Britain's top advanced driver, Peter Rodger. This week he is advising motorists on how to get a cold car going in the bleak mid-winter.
IAM chief examiner Peter Rodger said: "If the weather is really bad, think about whether you really need to make the journey before travelling. If so, ensure you take out the time to prepare your car for the elements you may face."
Rodger offers six tips to avoid seasonal car problems:
- Don't switch on the engine until you are ready to go; a modern car does not need to warm the engine up. But do put the engine on if you need to run the heater/demister before you move off.
- Clean any snow off the car's roof and bonnet as well as windows.
- When you get in the car, make sure all extras such as lights, heaters and the radio are turned off before you try starting it.
- Clean your windows inside and out – a dirty screen will cause the windows to mist up much quicker.
- When you're ready to go, switch the engine and heater on (air con if you have fitted; it keeps the screen dry) so that the windows don't steam up.
- Use the 'ice' setting if your car has one and it's cold enough.
Rodger said: "Spending time preparing your car for the weather conditions is important so that it copes well throughout your journey. Now is the time to check the battery is in good condition and that your screen wash has a freeze-resistant additive."
To help drivers stay safe this winter, the IAM has launched its winter driving campaign which includes a dedicated website, drivingadvice.org.uk, with traffic updates, weather forecasts and tips on how to drive safely in winter.
Tips there cover rain, snow, ice, fog and wind – everything you can expect in a typically unpredictable British winter. Check it out before you travel
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