As any good boy scout will tell you, preparation is key. This is especially true when it comes to getting ready for winter, and making sure your car contains everything you might possibly need.
Car owners should ensure they have stocked up on screen wash, de-icer, antifreeze, wiper blades and snow socks or winter tyres in time for the bad weather setting in – all of which can be purchased from your local Arnold Clark Parts Department.
Before ANY journey – not just long ones – ensure your car contains all the things you might need should you get delayed, stuck, lost or involved in an incident.
- Spade for shovelling snow out of the way of trapped wheels
- Blankets & warm clothes, in case you have to turn off your engine and your car gets cold… or you have to stand on the roadside
- Food & water to keep your energy levels up should you be delayed (high calorie snacks are recommended)
- Some cash, e.g. for tolls or charges (you may have to take a different route)
- High-visibility jacket so you can be seen on the motorway or country roads if you have to leave your car
- Wellington boots for wading through snow or rain should you get stuck – try to keep your normal shoes dry so they don't slip on the pedals
- De-icer and scraper - just because you’ve dealt with ice in the morning doesn’t it mean it wont creep back towards the end of the day
- First aid kit and any medication you take regularly, in case you are held up or an accident occurs
- Emergency breakdown details and a fully-charged phone so you can call for help
- Old rug or sack for putting under your wheels if you are unable to move in snow
- Salt, sand or even cheap cat litter to put down on a very snowy or icy patch
- Jump leads may come in handy if you break down
- Chemical hand warmers
- Paper towels
- An empty plastic bottle...
We also suggest that you keep some sunglasses in your glovebox all year round, as glare from the winter sun can be problematic. In such bright conditions, be aware that those in cars behind you may not be able to see you – pay attention to your rear-view mirror.
Keep your tank relatively full – not just for unexpected long journeys! The additional weight can help with traction, and you never know when you might need to take a long detour. A nearly empty tank is more susceptible to condensation, which forms in the tank and then freezes in your fuel lines, preventing your car from starting.
Finally, do of course make sure you have the (correct) spare tyre in your possession. A puncture in winter is a force to be reckoned with!
If disaster strikes, a boot full of supplies will help – unless you can't actually get into your boot...
Accist from Arnold Clark is complimentary accident management service available to all Arnold Clark customers. As a member, you will enjoy peace of mind that, should you be involved in an accident, Arnold Clark will manage the whole process for you, taking the hassle and worry out of the situation. For further information, please don't hesitate to contact our ACCIST team on 0845 270 1881.
Once your car is packed and ready to go, don't leave before you familiarise yourself with our winter driving tips.