Winter Driving

Notwithstanding differences connected to factors such as latitude, geographical location, length and frequency of journeys, driving in the winter season generally presents more problems than driving in other seasons. For this reason, the vehicle and the driver must be prepared as well as possible to cope with these kinds of driving conditions as well as possible.
In winter driving braking and stopping the vehicle are the most difficult moments. It is obvious that the tyres play a fundamental role in stopping the vehicle , if possible, in winter they need even more care and attention than in the other seasons.
Having said this, now think about your tyres. Are they classified as all season tyres? That is, do they have a tread that permits perfect traction even on snow and wet roads? If it is not, your vehicle must be fitted with tyres suitable for any type of climate , even the most severe ones.
Tyre manufacturers supply tyres marked 'M+S', suitable for any conditions of use and generally classifiable in two main categories; 'studded and 'not studded .
Here are the symbol identifying 'M+S' tyres, which is located on the sidewall. The symbol must have a minimum base size of 15 mm (0.60 in) and height of 15 mm (0.60 in).

In winter the pressure of the tyre must also be controlled more frequently. This is because a reduction of the outside temperature causes a contraction of the air inside the tyre, accelerating the normal and gradual pressure loss process by a value around 1-2 psi for each 9° F decrease in temperature.

Contrary to popular opinion, a lower inflation pressure than the normal one does not improve tyre traction on snow. On the contrary it makes them much more liable to damage . Always remember that in any season and with any temperature, insufficient pressure is always the main cause of tyre damage.

Remember that four wheel drive vehicles, 4x4, may improve driving on snow, but do not eliminate braking problems or possible skidding.

Here is some advice to always bear in mind under 'winter' driving conditions:

• Always avoid sudden maneuvers. Accelerate and steer gradually. When stopping, brake more slowly. This action helps the tread to maintain good traction. Tyres that slide or rotate cannot be controlled.
• If it slides and the car has an anti-lock braking system (ABS) the brakes must be pressed continually and firmly, steering into the skid. Never press the brake pedal firmly and quickly without steering towards the skid at the same time.
• If you are stuck in the snow, rotating the tyres too fast can only overheat them until they explode. The correct way to resolve this problem is to move the car slowly backwards and forwards. If the vehicle is equipped with ABS, always consult the instructions on the vehicle's user manual.