Many of us are behind the wheel every day, but winter driving can be a whole different ball game.
With ice, frost, rain and fog all potentially affecting our journeys, it’s crucial to ensure you’re safe before setting off each morning. Dash cam expert Kyung Ho Min, from Thinkware, has outlined seven vital checks Brits should be making every morning before hitting the road.
The company, which prides itself as the largest manufacturer of premium in-car dash cams, regularly shares useful driving advice on its social media platforms, and their latest tips could prove invaluable this winter.
If you want to stay safe when travelling during the colder months, here’s what you need to know. It’s vital to keep an eye on the weather.
Winter can be a stunning season, but freezing temperatures and icy roads can make driving tricky. Whether you’re embarking on a seasonal road trip or just tackling the daily commute, preparing your car and dash cam is key. Here are some simple yet essential checks to keep you safe.
Clean your windscreens
Clear your windscreens. Even if you’re in a hurry, always wait until your entire windscreen is defrosted.
Even a small patch of ice can obstruct your view, increasing the risk of an accident. A good quality ice scraper and de-icer will swiftly clear your windows, mirrors and headlights.
But don’t forget to remove any snow from your car roof either, as this could slide onto your windscreen and cause problems.
Check your tyres
Your tyres are your first line of defence against slippery roads, so it’s crucial they’re in good condition. Low tread or incorrect pressure can even lead to accidents.
Tyre pressure often drops in cold weather, so make sure to regularly check the pressure and ensure the tread depth is at least 3mm for optimal grip. You might even consider switching to winter tyres for improved traction.
Check your car’s fluid
It’s essential to keep an eye on your car’s fluids. Low or even frozen fluids can cause your car to break down, which is something no motorist wants.
To prevent this, you should top up your wiper fluid with a winter-grade solution that won’t freeze. Make sure to check your car’s antifreeze levels and the engine oil, ensuring it’s suitable for cold weather.
Place your dash cam correctly
The placement of your dash cam is vital. It’s important to maintain a clear view when driving, particularly when the roads are icy.
A poorly positioned dash cam can obstruct your view and interfere with safety features like airbags. For the best results, place your dash cam in the centre of your windscreen.
This way, it’s out of sight but still able to capture necessary footage, and it won’t interfere with any crucial features like wipers.
Test your dash cam
Dash cams can struggle in freezing temperatures, resulting in errors or even shutdowns. That’s why you should turn your cam on before driving to ensure it’s working properly.
You might even want to look into dash cams that are rated for colder weather to avoid any issues.
Clean your dash cam
Lastly, remember to clean your dash cam lens.
A dash cam’s effectiveness is only as good as the footage it records, and frost or condensation on the lens can render it useless. Regularly wiping down the lens with a microfibre cloth is recommended, and for added protection, consider investing in an anti-fog solution or lens cover.
Check the cam’s power supply
Be mindful of your cam’s power supply as cold weather can deplete battery life, potentially leaving your dash cam powerless. A possible solution is to hardwire your dash cam into your car’s electrical system for consistent power.
If you rely on an internal battery, think about carrying a backup power source or fully charging before each journey. Winter roads require extra caution, but by following these tips and checks, you can be better prepared for any challenges that may arise.
Plus, you’ll have additional peace of mind – regardless of the weather.