Brake Discs and Winter Highway Driving Tips

Winter is a difficult season to drive in. There are so many factors that you have to think about including the snow or moisture on the road, the temperature of the road and the temperature your tyres can handle.

The first thing to remember when driving in extremely cold temperatures is to drive as slowly as you can without obstructing traffic. The roads might be slippery and treading on the tyres won't grip as easily because of the lack of friction.

When you are approaching any inclines, don't speed up or slow down. Try to use the momentum to get the car up the hill. The frictionless surface doesn't allow gripping and you could spin out potentially causing accidents. You should also try to avoid stopping on hills as it is more challenging to get the car moving again.

When going down any inclines try to keep your speed slow. The gravity is already pulling you down which makes stopping slightly more difficult. Apply the brakes as soon as you start descending downhill.

Spinning is common in cold weather conditions. If you happen to spin out of control and skid then make sure that you take your foot off the throttle. Gently pull the wheel in the opposite direction of which the car is spinning. Sharp movements will damage the tyres and your brakes. It is important to stay calm if this happens.

Do not take a corner very sharply. Slow down progressively and then gently take the corner. Remember that you should not push the brakes whilst you are turning as it causes brake wear and reduces their lifespan. Slowing down to turn into another road will prevent you from slipping into the other lane.

During the winter season you have to make sure that you have the correct fitments and parts. You also have to make sure that the windscreen is clear from any frost or mist when you start to drive. To remove frost, you can pour regular tap water over it and allow it to reach the temperature of the air. Frost usually accumulates overnight and by the time it reaches morning, it is slightly warmer. Therefore pouring the tap water over your car should not freeze the windscreen.