Golden Rules to Follow While Driving in Extreme Weather Conditions

car tyres1.jpgYour car, like most other machines, is susceptible to extreme variations in temperature. When it’s scorching hot or freezing cold outside, the probability of a mechanical fault in your vehicle increases proportionately. You must take certain precautions to make sure that it doesn’t hamper your journey.

Driving in The Scorching Heat

The once fabled English summer is slowly turning extreme with each passing year. The recent heat wave was the longest in decades, and it seems like the trend will continue in the foreseeable future.

Most people consider summers to be the ideal time for driving. You may notice a spike in the number of people who are taking long road trips at this time. While it is true that driving in the summers is relatively easier than in extreme winters, you still need to pay extra attention to your car or risk a potential breakdown.

  • For extreme temperatures, make sure your vehicle is fit with summer tyres. If you drive an SUV, there are many options for 4×4 tyres in Manchester that you can choose from.

  • Check your car’s battery regularly. Extreme heat may damage some of the internal components of your car battery.

  • Clean your car of any dust or dirt that might accumulate around components like the suspension, brake callipers, etc.

  • Pay particular attention to the level of coolants in your car. Also, remember to check the fluid level for the rest of the components.

  • Tyres are more prone to blowouts during summers. If possible, get a set of run-flats for your car.

Driving in The Incessant Rain

There is no fixed season for rain. It may rain anytime, anywhere. Hydroplaning is the most significant risk in such situations. Preparedness is the key when it comes to driving in the rain.

  • Never drive with tyres that have a tread depth lower than 3 mm.

  • Do not use cruise control.

  • Use tyres that have more pronounced treads, preferably with longer sipes.

  • Allow extra space to vehicles that are ahead of you. Never tailgate when the visibility is low.

  • Keep the headlights on.

  • If you are stuck in a pool of water, make sure that the water doesn’t enter the tailpipe. It may reach your car’s engine and cause it to shut down entirely.

Driving in The Winters

Winters are arguably the hardest time for driving. If your area receives heavy snowfall, it can become all the more worse. Driving in snow is a different ballgame altogether, and you should follow every safety precaution while doing so.

  • Install winter tyres without fail. If there’s heavy snowfall, go for a set of studded snow tyres. You may find an impressive collection of such Car Tyres Manchester at garages like Gilgal Tyre.

  • Heat your car for at least 2 minutes before taking it out for the first time.

  • Battery failure is common during winters. Check its condition periodically.

  • Keep tyre pressure 1 or 2 psi above the recommended level. Air pressure drops as the temperature starts falling.

  • Clean your car of the grime and salt at least once a week.

Driving in extreme weather conditions is rarely a pleasurable experience. Following these tips will ensure that at least it’s a safe one.