Winter Driving
We’ve been in winter for a while and despite some cold days and some very recent snow we’ve been spared significant, sustained accumulation. Of course, as I write this I realize everything could quickly change.

Snow and ice make it difficult to drive and lower temperatures will affect the way your vehicle functions. I’d like to share some facts and cautions about winter driving.

ABS 

Maintaining steering control is the primary function of ABS

The Anti-lock Brake System (ABS) is designed to allow you to maintain control of the vehicle by preventing the wheels from locking up. ABS does not mean you will stop sooner, so maintaining a safe distance from the vehicle in front of you is essential.

Safe Distance
Employ the ten-second rule on snowy and icy roads. Pick a sign or landmark on the road ahead of the vehicle you are following, when that vehicle hits that mark, start counting – when you get to ten Mississippi you have established a ten second space.

Traction Control
Traction control systems are built to help you gain traction in snow and on slippery surfaces. On board computers sense when a wheel begins to spin and either reduces power to that wheel or applies light braking force to stop the spin.

Stability Systems
These systems compare wheel position to steering wheel position. When the computer senses a difference it applies brakes on the correct wheel to get the vehicle back on course.

Lights On / Cruise Off
As a good general rule, a way of being visible is to get in the habit of turning on your low beams whenever you’re driving if your vehicle is not equipped with automatic running lights. Turning off your cruise control will lessen the chance of hydroplaning on wet and snowy roads.

No Gas on Curves
On slick roads avoid any acceleration going into or while you are on a curve. Additional power to the wheels at this time will accelerate a loss of traction.

Air Conditioning in the Winter?
Your air conditioning system contains a condenser that works to remove moister from the air in the passenger cabin. The air conditioner will also work to remove moister on the windshield when the system is set to take in fresh air and the temperature is set to hot.

What’s That Noise?
Many drivers will notice new and rather bothersome noises (scrapping and clicking) during winter driving caused by a build up of snow on the vehicle’s undercarriage and inside the wheel wells. Knocking the snow off or blasting it away at the quarter car wash can be a fast and easy remedy.

Stop by anytime for a FREE PitStop. We’ll top off your fluids, check your lights and wipers and answer any questions you may have.