Northern European winters are a challenge not only for drivers but also for their vehicles. Ice, snow, low temperatures – all this puts an additional strain on all car systems.
For drivers, this means additional responsibility for the condition of their vehicle, as it affects safety on the road. How can you keep your car in top shape in winter and extend the life of your tyres?
General tips for winter car care
Before moving on to tyres, it’s worth mentioning general winter car care. After all, all car systems are closely interconnected, and any malfunction can negatively affect other components.
- In winter, the efficiency of the braking system is critical. Regularly check the thickness of the brake pads and the condition of the discs.
- Winter temperatures can quickly drain the battery. It is important to check the battery charge and the condition of the terminals to avoid problems with starting the engine.
- Winter puts more strain on the alternator, so it’s important to keep it running smoothly. For example, among the advantages of the Volvo 940 alternator reliability and stable operation over a wide temperature range. However, even the best generator needs regular inspection and maintenance.
- Always check the levels of coolant, windscreen washer fluid and brake fluid. They are consumed more quickly in winter.
- Replace your old wipers with new winter wipers. They are better at handling ice and snow.
- Check shock absorbers, springs and other suspension components for damage. Make sure all headlights, parking lights and brake lights are working properly.
Why is it important to use winter tyres in winter?
Winter tyres are made from a softer rubber compound that retains its elasticity even at low temperatures, providing better grip.
Winter tyres have a more aggressive tread pattern with a large number of sipes. This allows water, snow and mud to be removed more efficiently.
When choosing winter tyres, pay attention to the speed index and load index. Always follow your vehicle manufacturer’s tyre size recommendations. It is also important to consider the type of road surface you drive on most often.
How to extend the life of your tyres in winter
- Check the tyre pressure regularly. Insufficient or excessive pressure can lead to uneven tread wear and impair handling.
- Have your wheels balanced regularly to help prevent vibrations and extend the life of your tyres.
- Swap front and rear tyres regularly to ensure even wear.
- Keep an eye on the tread depth. The minimum tread depth for winter tyres is 4 mm.
- Clean the wheels after driving in mud or snow.
- Avoid sudden acceleration, braking and cornering. Aggressive driving style leads to accelerated tread wear.
- After the season, store your tyres in a cool, dry place out of sunlight. Use special tyre covers.
Following the recommendations for car care will help keep your tyres in good condition and avoid any problems on the road in the Northern European winter.
