Winter tires, engine checks, black ice... It's that time again: the cold season is upon us and presents challenges not only for our vehicle, but also for us every day. The sooner we start winterizing our car and follow certain tips, the sooner the nasty surprise effect will disappear in the event of a sudden cold snap.
With our advice, you can get through the winter with your car carefree.
Tip 1:
Letting the engine warm up is not only prohibited and can be punished with a fine of CHF 60, but also harms the engine and the environment. It is better to warm up the vehicle carefully for the first 5-10 km, as the engine oil is still viscous and must first reach operating temperature.
Tip 2:
It is also not a good idea to get behind the wheel with a thick winter coat. In the event of an abrupt braking situation, the three-point belt only provides support if the belt is actually tight to the body. With a thick winter jacket, the harness has too much play; children in particular are at risk of this and can slip in an acute situation.
Tip 3:
If you like the windshield, you'd better refrain from using the tried and tested ice scraper. This is because the scratch can work possible dirt particles or smaller stones into the window and may cause cracks. It would be better not to allow ice to form at all by placing a cloth or protective film on the windscreen overnight and thus protecting not only the windshield but also the windshield wipers from freezing. Alternatively, spray the window with a de-icing agent and ensure a perfect view in no time.
Tip 4:
What is also often carelessly forgotten is to grease the door seals. A small measure with a big effect: the grease prevents moisture from settling in the seals and allows the door frame and door to freeze together at temperatures below freezing point. In such a case, the only thing that helps is the application of enormous force, which can massively damage the seals. Therefore, lubricate door rubbers with special rubber cleaners or silicone oils and refrain from using deer tallow or Vaseline.
Tip 5:
And while we're on the process of de-icing, here's a little helpful tip for those who need to unlock their car: The door lock de-icer should not be stored in the glove box. 😉
Tip 6:
Book a tire change and winter check at your garage early on and have the battery, lighting system and windshield and radiator antifreeze checked.
The use of winter tires is recommended in Switzerland under appropriate road and weather conditions. There is no basic obligation to put on winter tires. However, anyone who travels on snow-covered roads with summer tires is liable to a considerable extent in the event of an accident. Anyone who obstructs traffic on snowy roads because they drive with summer tires can be fined.
Tip 7:
If you should also drive across Swiss borders in winter, it is helpful to know which countries have regulations regarding winter tires:
- There is a “winter tire regulation” in Germany. According to this, there is an express obligation to wear winter tires for anyone driving in the event of “black ice, slippery snow, slush, icy or tire slippery on the road” - mandatory also for motor vehicles registered abroad.
- In Austria, winter tires or snow chains are mandatory. From November 1 to April 15, vehicles may only be put into operation in winter driving conditions if winter tires are fitted or snow chains are attached to the drive wheels.
- Depending on the weather, winter tires may be required in Italy at short notice or at specific times for individual sections of the route. Some relevant information can be found on signs. Winter tires are mandatory in the Aosta Valley from October 15 to April 15. Alternatively, car owners can also put snow chains on summer tires.
- In France, you must drive on mountain roads with winter tires if appropriate road signs or additional signs indicate this.
Here are our tips for you. We hope you're doing well with it.
autoSense wishes you safe driving even in winter.
