How’s Your Car Coping With The Snow?

We all know how essential it is to keep your car in tip top shape for the winter – have you been caught out by the snow?

The early onset this year means many of us might not have got round to giving the car a winter overhaul, so I thought a few tips might be a good idea, both on maintenance and safe driving in bad conditions. You don’t want to end up on You Tube, do you, with everyone laughing while you slide out of control?

• Always clear the snow away before setting off – it’s not just your visibility that will be impaired, but other motorists too, as it flies off your car and onto the one behind you. Not only is it an offence in some countries not to do this, it’s also pretty stupid.

• If the car isn’t being used, clear the snow and ice away from the windscreen wipers and pull them gently away to stop them freezing to the windscreen.

• Warming the engine up extends the lifecycle; sit idle for a little while.

• Anti freeze, fuel, windscreen wash, oil – ensure they’re all topped up.

• Leave plenty of time! Nothing worse than an idiot driver speeding (or trying to) in slush or ice!

• Pull away in second gear to avoid wheel spin. As long as the wheels are turning you can change direction!

• Plan your journey – try to avoid hills! But if you can’t, leave plenty of room between you and those in front, just in case they slide back.

• Pack some essentials – food, extra warm and waterproof clothing/blankets/drinks and a shovel.

• And I think I mentioned before - if stuck in snow and keeping the engine running - make sure the exhaust pipe is clear!

So whereabouts in Rochester are the experts to keep you moving?

Tony, at the Higham Garage, recommends Telegraph Hill Service Station – very good, very skilfull and reasonably priced too, he says.

The Four Elms Service Station charge £100 plus parts, labour and vat or £200 all in, for major service.  I can also recommend their customer service, having had my car repaired there previously – quick and efficient!

Cliffe Woods Auto Engineers offer fixed price servicing and free estimates with a regular full service costing£70 labour, plus parts and of course, the dreaded vat!

Auto Renovations recovery can’t recommend a garage, they’re not allowed to – but you’ll be pleased to know they are at work today!

Medway Business Ward finalist, Motorbitz Motor Parts are on the Medway CityEstate and we’ve a directory for other companies specialising in spare parts too, as well as tyres and windscreens.  

Of course, it isn’t just cars – motorbikes need care and attention too! Find your local dealer here. 

Top tip: Use your common sense – don’t drive unless you absolutely have to! Remember, the car is a mindless piece of machinery, it’s relying on you!