With temperatures plummeting in many regions around South Africa, coupled with flooding and icy conditions, Vishal Premlall, national director of the Tyre, Equipment, Parts Association (TEPA), a proud association of the Retail Motor Industry Organisation (RMI), talks about why it is important to get your car ‘winter ready’ and what this means.
“The weather in general is becoming more unpredictable and as we have seen this week bad weather can strike earlier than traditionally expected. This is why you shouldn’t procrastinate in preparing your car for cold conditions,” he says.
“Icy conditions are stressful to drive in. As a motorist, you may recognise the importance of being extra cautious and patient, driving slower and using your headlights and hazards if necessary. What about your car? How ready is your car for winter conditions?”
If you take your car for a maintenance check, things to ensure are done must include a battery check, alternator check, anti-freeze change and diagnostics check.
What is antifreeze and why do you need it?
Premlall explains it is an additive added to the water in the radiator, usually a brightly coloured liquid.
“Antifreeze serves a few purposes, such as it keeps the water in the radiator and engine from freezing in cold temperatures, and from boiling over in hot temperatures. Antifreeze is also a lubricant for the moving parts it comes into contact with, such as the water pump of the vehicle. It also aids in reducing rust and scale build up which can inhibit the effective cooling by the radiator.
“Ask your technician what antifreeze should be used for your vehicle and the appropriate ratio to water to prevent against corrosion and potential freezing.”
About the battery, if there's ever a chance it could suddenly let you down it will be in winter. Cold temperatures affect the functioning of a car battery.
Tyres don’t generally need to be adjusted during winter as all season tyres are usually perfect for South African conditions, provided they are well maintained and at the right pressure. You will find the right pressure for your tyres in your owner’s manual. Take into consideration that tyre pressures are harder when your tyres are hot and the opposite is true when your tyres are very cold. So avoid making large adjustments in extreme temperatures.
Another important tip is to take care of your windscreen. Use a specialised windshield cover to protect the glass from snow and ice. This is one of the most effective methods as it prevents ice from forming on the windshield. You can also use the heater to gradually warm up the engine and windscreen.
He adds that windscreen wipers should be working optimally at all times and that all areas that can collect leaves and other debris on the car must be properly cleaned. Also, ensure that your rear-window defroster is working as it should.
Did you know that keeping your fuel tank full in winter helps to reduce condensation? Also, if you end up stranded on the side of the road, your engine may be the only thing to keep you warm until help arrives, so always ensure you have sufficient fuel.
“On a final note, always check the weather on the road ahead, especially if you are going on a long trip. If while driving you hit a patch of ice, your car will respond in a similar manner to hitting a puddle of water and begins aquaplaning. Do not hit the brakes, your car will simply slide, usually in the unintended direction. Ease off on the accelerator, steer into the direction of the slide if it begins sliding and usually this loss of directional control is only momentarily. When control is regained, make the necessary correction to your steering and adjust your speed. It is worth making sure you and your car are prepared for all seasons before you hit the road,” Premlall concludes.