Let’s face it: driving during winter can be a total nightmare. Temperatures have plummeted, roads are greasy and tempers are more frayed than usual. Plus, no one feels like changing a tyre in the pouring rain.
So, for your convenience, we have compiled some useful tips on how your wheels can weather the winter storm.
One: Make sure your vehicle is in tip-top shape
Some people say your body is your temple. But why not apply the same principle to your car? We chatted to Ian Kaplan, owner of Speedy Tyre and Fitment in the Cape Town CBD about how you can keep your car in tip top condition during the winter chill.
First, tyre tread. “Check that the tread on your tyres is correct, especially before and after that highly anticipated road-trip,” says Ian Kaplan, owner of Speedy Tyre and Fitment in the Cape Town CBD. “Or, better yet, get a specialist to do the work for you. Not only will your journey be smooth sailing, but having your tyre pressure checked could save you a couple of extra bucks.
Next, check your exhaust for any loose clamps and leaks to avoid further damage to your vehicle.
Three, look after your battery! “Winter places particular pressures on your battery, whether you’re working the heater, driving with your lights on or using the wiper,” says Kaplan. “Batteries tend to last a maximum of 5 years, so replacing one near the end of its lifespan can save you a lot of time and trouble.”
Two: Pack a winter toolkit
Heading off on a long drive? Keep these items handy.
- First aid kit (for any emergency).
- Clothing and blankets (because you can never be too warm).
- Non-perishable food (who doesn’t need an extra snack?)
- Flashlight with an extra set of batteries (OK, let’s be honest – we mean a fully charged cellphone with a flashlight app enabled.
- Jumper cables (for the unexpected breakdown)
Three: Take precautions
Slippery roads = caution, so watch your speed. Even if you’re accused of Driving Miss Daisy, stick to a speed well below the speed limit. Plus, remember to keep a safe following distance from the vehicle in front of you. As the saying goes: “rather late to work than early to the emergency room”.
Next, remember to use your headlights. Nights are longer, days are darker and rain is a frequent occurrence, so get those bulbs checked.
Finally, keep your tank half full. “This means you’ll always get from A to B in an emergency,” says Kaplan. Plus, if you do break down, half a tank of petrol will mean you can keep the heater on longer. It’s the small things, right?
Vehicle maintenance can be a real headache, and Speedy knows this. The Cape Town branch has recently unveiled a limited offer, whereby motorists who purchase parts with their WeChat Wallet get 20% off the purchase price (up to R500 back).
“At Speedy, we’re always looking to give motorists the best deal possible, says Kaplan, “and the WeChat activation gives very real value to motorists during the wet winter months.”
Find out more at www.valuemotoringnews.com/wechat/
