Driving a manual car in the snow can be challenging, but with the right techniques and precautions, it can be done safely. Here are some tips to help you drive a manual car in the snow:
Prepare yourself:
Take note of weather forecasts and warnings, listen to local radio stations and avoid driving in heavy snow unless absolutely necessary. Take with you; a flask with a warm drink and snacks, plenty of warm clothes, gloves, hat and sturdy shoes, it may be warm in your car, but if you do get stuck you need to be prepared for all eventualities. Make sure your mobile phone is fully charged.
Prepare your car:
Before setting off, make sure your car is prepared for winter driving. This includes checking your tyre pressure and tread depth, filling up your windshield washer fluid, checking your antifreeze/coolant levels and making sure you’re not too low on fuel. Clear all windows, lights and mirrors of snow and brush off any snow from your roof and bonnet, if you don’t clear it, as you speed up and slow down, snow from these areas can dislodge and obstruct your view. In the boot make sure you have a shovel, de-icer, ice scraper, warning triangle, jump leads and a high vis jacket.
Start in second gear:
When starting off on snowy or icy roads, try starting in second gear instead of first. This will help prevent your wheels from spinning and give you more control. Try and keep engine revs as low as possible when moving off.
Be gentle with the clutch:
When changing gears, be gentle with the clutch pedal to avoid losing traction. Change up and down gears slowly and smoothly.
Use lower gears to aid braking:
Use lower gears to help slow down and control your speed. This will also help you maintain traction by keeping your wheels engaged with the road.
Avoid sudden movements:
Sudden movements like braking, accelerating or turning can cause your car to lose traction. Instead, try to make smooth and gradual movements to maintain control.
Use your handbrake:
If you are parked on a hill, use your handbrake to prevent your car from sliding backwards when you release the clutch.
Give yourself extra time and space:
In snowy or icy conditions, it’s important to give yourself extra time to stop and extra space between you and other cars. Try to anticipate the traffic when approaching hills and aim not to stop on a hill.
Avoid back roads where possible
As tempting as it may be to use your usual ‘rat runs’ they’re much less likely to be cleared or gritted.
Stay alert:
Pay close attention to the road ahead and any changes in weather conditions. Stay focused and avoid any distractions while driving.