Winter has arrived in full force across the southern regions of the country. In any inclement weather, it is important to take extra precautions on the road while driving. Whether it is for work or pleasure, it is advisable to allow additional time to arrive safely at your destination.
Even if you live in Queensland, the Northern Territory, or northern Western Australia where the weather rarely gets cold enough to worry about ice or snow, there are still different driving hazards you may encounter.
Winter road hazards
Before embarking on your next winter adventure there are some things you should consider, including:
- Tread condition of your tyres
- Brake pads and brakes
- Indicators and headlights
- Wiper blades and wipers
- Fluids and oils
- Battery
- Weather shields and rubber seals.
In the wet and cold, it pays to drive slowly. As weather conditions worsen around many parts of the country, give yourself a little extra time to get to your destination. Road hazards such as water, frost, black ice and oils on the road can all pose hazards while driving.
Winter is tough on rubber seals, coolants, and fluids in your car. Windshield wipers can be damaged by icy windscreens in the morning. In giving yourself more time before you leave home, you can safely remove ice from your windscreen by using an ice scraper (purchased from an auto parts store).
Mid-winter inspections
It is possible to perform some basic checks on your car at home, such as assessing the washer fluid level, wiper blade condition, and ensuring all your lights are working correctly. However, it is recommended that you contact a professional service technician to give your vehicle an in-depth inspection of critical safety components such as brakes and tyres so they can verify that your vehicle is performing at its best.
If you’re planning on driving anywhere that sees snow and ice, you may want to consider winter tyres. These are designed to perform well when weather conditions deteriorate and you can recognise them thanks to the snowflake symbol on the sidewall.
Be mindful when considering winter tyres that the M+S (Mud & Snow) designated tyres are not always performance rated for the same circumstances. Take a moment to check for the 3 Peak Mountain Snowflake symbol when purchasing tyres to ensure that they are a dedicated winter tyre, capable of taking you to the high country.
Winter vs All-season tyres
In an ideal world, we’d all have a set of tyres for each season. However, this can be expensive and impractical for all but the most hard-core enthusiasts. For the rest of us, all-season tyres can be very convenient.
Suitable for a range of conditions, they combine some benefits of both winter and summer tyres and aim to provide good levels of grip through most of what you’ll throw at them. If you live in a moderate climate without frequent exposure to extreme weather, then all-season tyres may be a good option for your vehicle.
Get your tyres with ZipPay
Regardless of what tyres you’re after, why not contact your local Tyrepower store to discuss your options. Selected Tyrepower stores also offer ZipPay which means that purchasing new tyres has never been easier. Purchasing tyres with an interest-free payment plan, such as ZipPay, allows you to get the tyres you need and drive safer this winter.
Find a shop near you here, or phone 13 21 91 to speak with one of our staff right now.
