Winter driving tips: Four ways to stay safe on the islands roads this winter
Winter driving can be challenging, especially when temperatures drop, daylight hours shorten, and icy roads become more common. Whether you’re commuting around the island, heading off to see family further afield, or tackling early morning school runs, preparing your car for winter is essential.
To help local drivers stay safe and confident on the road, our team has shared five practical winter car tips that can make all the difference when driving in cold and icy conditions.
1. Plan ahead and carry a winter emergency kit
Planning your journey is always important, but winter weather means being prepared for the unexpected. Snow, ice or breakdowns can happen quickly, so keeping a winter emergency kit in your car is a smart move.
Your winter car kit should include:
- Warm blankets
- Water and non-perishable snacks
- A torch
- De-icer and an ice scraper
- A shovel
- A warning triangle
- A first-aid kit
- Volvo’s puncture repair kit
- A fully charged mobile phone
Having these essentials to hand can make a big difference if you’re delayed or stranded in cold conditions.
2. Clear windows and mirrors before every journey
Driving with fogged or icy windows is dangerous – and illegal. While scraping ice may feel like a winter chore, there are ways to make it easier.
Parking your car overnight with the windscreen facing east can help, as the morning sun naturally melts frost. Alternatively, using a windscreen cover or full car cover can protect your vehicle from overnight ice and snow, saving time on frosty mornings.
It goes without saying, but always make sure all windows, mirrors and lights are fully clear before setting off.
3. Check your tyres regularly
Your tyres are your only contact with the road, making them especially important in winter driving conditions. The legal minimum tread depth in the UK is 1.6mm, but for winter driving it’s recommended to have at least 3mm of tread to improve grip on wet, icy or slippery roads.
A quick way to check tread depth is the 20p coin test. Insert a 20p coin into the tyre’s groove – if the outer rim of the coin is still visible, it’s time to replace the tyre.
Also remember that cold weather can reduce tyre pressure, so check inflation levels regularly throughout winter.
4. Check fluids, oil and filters
Cold temperatures put extra strain on your car’s engine and systems, so it’s important to keep fluids topped up and in good condition.
- Ensure coolant is filled to the correct level and properly mixed to prevent freezing
- Use a winter-grade windscreen washer fluid that won’t freeze and can cut through grime
- If your car is due an oil change, have this done before winter sets in
- Consider replacing the cabin air filter, which can become clogged with pollen and debris from warmer months
These simple checks help keep your car running smoothly and reliably throughout winter.
By following these winter car tips, you can reduce the risks associated with cold weather driving and enjoy greater peace of mind throughout the season.
