Driving in Snow – Essential Tips
Taming the White Stuff: Essential Tips for Winter Driving with Your 4x4
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Winter transforms our roads into a snowy wonderland, but it also brings unique challenges for drivers. Thankfully, if you’re behind the wheel of a 4×4, you already have an advantage when driving in snow. However, even the toughest vehicles require careful preparation and technique to tackle icy conditions safely.
At 4×4 Tyres, we want you to conquer to be driving in snow with confidence. Whether you’re cruising through city streets or venturing off-road, having the right knowledge – and the right equipment, like all-terrain tyres or winter tyres – can make all the difference. Here are our top tips to help you navigate snow and ice like a pro. Let’s make winter driving a little easier for you.
Before You Hit the Road: Preparation is Key
- Gear Up for Emergencies – Always carry a winter driving survival kit in your vehicle. Essentials include a warm blanket, extra clothing, a flashlight, a fully charged phone (and charger), and a basic toolkit. A sturdy snow shovel can be a lifesaver in deeper snow.
- Inspect Your Tyres – Your tyres are your first line of defence against slippery roads when driving in snow. Check your 4×4 tyres are properly inflated. Check your tyres have sufficient tread depth to maintain grip.
- For maximum safety and control, switch to winter tyres. Winter tyres are designed to handle cold temperatures and icy surfaces. Check out our tyre range for your vehicle and you can filter the results by tyre type. Simple!
- Alternatively, consider all-terrain tyres for driving in snow if you need versatility for both winter driving and year-round off-road adventures. Look out for the 3PMSF symbol!
- Clear Your Vision – Scrape and defrost all windows, mirrors, and the rear window thoroughly. Don’t forget to clear snow from the roof, bonnet, and headlights—this ensures better visibility for you and others on the road.
On the Road: Mastering Winter Driving Techniques
- Take it Slow – Snow and ice increase stopping distances dramatically when driving in snow. Reduce your speed and leave plenty of space between you and the car ahead.
- Stay Smooth – Avoid sudden movements like hard braking or sharp steering, which can cause skidding. Brake gently and steer with precision to maintain control.
- Use the Right Gears – If your 4×4 is equipped with low-range gears, use them for improved traction during low-speed manoeuvres on steep or slippery terrain when driving in snow.
- Engage Your 4WD System – Ensure you know how to properly use your vehicle’s four-wheel-drive system. Consult your owner’s manual for guidance if needed—your 4×4 can’t perform its best without you knowing how to use its features.
Additional Tips for Driving in Snow
- Plan Ahead
Check weather forecasts and road conditions before setting off. Avoid routes prone to congestion or heavy snow accumulation when possible. - Turn on Your Lights
Keep your headlights on so you can see and be seen by others during snowfall. - Know When to Stop
If conditions become dangerous or visibility is severely reduced when driving in snow, don’t hesitate to pull over. It’s always better to wait for conditions to improve than to risk an accident.
Equip Your 4×4 for Success
The right tyres can transform how your vehicle handles winter conditions. Whether you need the unbeatable grip of winter tyres or the year-round versatility of all-terrain tyres, we’ve got you covered at 4×4 Tyres. Proper preparation and equipment ensure you’re ready for anything the snowy season throws your way.
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