We are now well and truly into winter. Past halfway to be exact but it's not until now that conditions really start to deteriorate. Taking extra precautions on the road while driving is paramount. Take a little extra time to get to your destination, whether it may be for work or play.
You may be thinking “Well, I live in Queensland. It doesn't get cold enough to worry about ice or other hazards that those who live in the south have to deal with.” but the fact is there are driving hazards and issues with weather across every state in Australia.
Here are a few things to consider when taking on your next journey:
- Tyres (tread condition)
- Brakes and brake pads
- Headlights and indicators
- Wipers and wiper blades
- Oils and fluids
- Battery
- Rubber seals and weathershields
- Slow down!
It pays to slow down in winter on the roads. Give yourself a little more time to get to your destination as conditions worsen across the country. Wet, cold weather means road hazards like black ice, snow and water, which can be extremely difficult to navigate.
These road hazards often lead to damaging your car's steering or other components. Winter can be harsh on your vehicle’s rubber seals, coolants and fluids. Icy windscreens in the morning can also damage your wipers.
Performing mid-winter inspections of oil and fluids, battery level, brakes and brake pads can be performed at home in the driveway, however, it is recommended that a professional service technician inspect these components to ensure they are safe.
Tyrepower offers a wide range of mechanical and technical services at selected stores around the country. With over 300 stores nationwide, there is sure to be a Tyrepower store near you offering everything from mechanical to winter and all-season tyres.
Winter tyres come marked with a snowflake symbol on the sidewall of the tyre and are rated to perform at a high level when the conditions deteriorate. However, M+S (Mud & Snow) markings are not rated to the same conditions.
Most tyre manufacturers highly recommend a tyre for each season but this can be an expensive exercise. This is where the all-season tyre fits in. All-season tyres fall somewhere in the middle of summer and winter tyres and are a great option for excellent traction all year round.
All-season tyres are constructed to deal with the heat in summer yet hold their own in the winter months when the temperature falls below 7. All-season tyres are essential intermediate tyres. They perform well in all weather conditions but in areas where the seasons are more extreme, are not as effective as winter and summer tyres.
Buying new tyres has never been easier now with the use of ZipPay at selected stores. Buying tyres on credit with 6 months interest free payments means you can purchase those winter or all-season tyres you really need and drive safer this winter.
Find one of our stores around Australia here or call 13 21 91 today to talk to one of our representatives.
