Five essential tips for prepping your car for a snowy adventure

Cold temperatures mean winter fun, especially if you’re headed for the ski slopes. But a dip into single-digit and sub-zero degrees presents a unique set of challenges for drivers and their vehicles. Here are five tips for making sure your next trip to the snow is as safe as it is enjoyable.

1. Give your vehicle a thorough condition check – and don’t forget the antifreeze

Your mechanic can make sure your vehicle is roadworthy for freezing conditions and will want to pay particular attention to the battery terminals (if your battery is nearing three to five years, this might be the time to get a new one), brakes, lights, wipers, washers, heater, and demister. Coolant (a liquid that regulates engine temperature, preventing overheating and freezing in extreme conditions) today usually contains antifreeze but it’s worth double checking you’ve got the right mix to stop your engine from seizing up in cold conditions. A cracked radiator is a sure-fire way to spoil your holiday. And for anyone who has used their windscreen washers only to have the water immediately turn to a sheet of ice on the windscreen, will know that antifreeze is an essential ingredient there too.

2. Make sure your fuel gets the cold weather treatment too

Just like all the other car fluids, fuel can be affected by plummeting temperatures. If your vehicle runs on diesel, time your fuel stops so you’re filling up at a station close to the ski area – they’ll have Alpine-mix diesel fuel available. Got a dual-fuel vehicle? Switch to fuel for the duration of your stay around the ski fields. Alpine-mix fuel is better for cold climates because it contains additives that prevent gelling, ensuring reliable engine performance in freezing temperatures.

3. Get a grip with tyres and chains

Winter tyres tend to be softer so they can deal better with ice and snow but you won’t necessarily want them on your car all year round. What you do want is plenty of tread depth (the Royal Automobile Club of Victoria recommends no less than 1.5mm). If you’re not sure whether your tyres are appropriate, ask for advice. Either way, you’ll need snow chains if you’re adventuring in Alpine NSW or Victoria – the law requires it. It’s worth having a practice run fitting them before you leave so when the time comes to put them on (there will be signposts telling you to do so), you know what you’re doing.

4. Drive to the conditions

Snowy, icy conditions can make for unsafe driving. Black ice – a seemingly invisible sheet of ice across the road – has taken many a driver by surprise and limited visibility means cautious driving is critical. Put your lights on. Slow down. Use your gears where possible over your breaks. When you do have to break, do it gently and accelerate slowly. Leave more distance between you and the car ahead than you would in normal conditions. Avoid driving at dusk and dawn when animals are particularly active.

5. Tailor your emergency kit

Be prepared for the unexpected with an emergency kit that includes first aid supplies, and a torch (check it works before you go and make sure to pack spare batteries!), spade, ice scraper, rope, tarp, blankets and – if you want to be really prepared – hand warmers. Chances are you won’t need to use any of it, but having it in place will give you peace of mind as you set off on your winter wonderland adventure.

Remember, ensuring your vehicle and driving style are adapted to cold weather conditions is crucial for a safe and enjoyable winter excursion to the ski slopes.

^Disclaimer

^{Viva Energy Australia Pty Ltd (“Viva Energy”) has compiled the above article for your general information and to use as a general reference. Whilst all reasonable care has been taken by Viva Energy in compiling this article, Viva Energy does not warrant or represent that the information in the article is free from errors or omissions or is suitable for your intended use.}