5 Cold Weather Hacks Every Car Owner Should Know

As diesel injector specialists with over 55 years of hands on experience, we know a thing or two about the importance of winter car maintenance. Here are five of our favorite hacks and tips for keeping your car in good condition over the winter months.

Pack a De-Icing Kit, and Keep it in your Car at All Times

Make sure you’re prepared for icy and cold conditions with a handy cold weather kit. Your kit should contain a pair of warm gloves (preferably waterproof), an ice scraper, de-icer, warm jacket and a microfiber cloth. Keep this in your car at all times and you’ll never have to hurriedly hack at your windscreen with your credit card again. Instead, you’ll always be prepared to quickly de-ice your windscreen and mirrors, and your hands will stay nice and warm in the process. The microfiber cloth will also come in handy for removing condensation from your wing mirrors and the interior side of your windscreen.

Use an Anti-Fog Solution

Anti-fog solution coats your mirrors/windscreen with a thin film that prevents condensation from forming. The next time you clean your car, use it on the inside of your windscreen, your rear view mirror and wing mirrors. If you’re looking to save some cash, it is also said that Shaving does the job just as well, however we recommend sticking to a purpose-made solution instead.

Clean Your Car!

We get it, it’s cold! And the last thing you want to do is spend your free time outside with a bucket of water and a sponge. But neglecting your car won’t do you any favours when it comes to winter driving. Rain, sleet and snow are all carriers of dirt and debris, and once that dirt collects on your car, it likes to stay there and build up. While dirt on the body of your car isn’t a major problem, dirt on your car windows and mirrors means your view as the driver is less clear, and driving your vehicle becomes more dangerous. So, if you really loathe washing your car in the cold, at least take the time to give your car windows a good clean. Once you’ve cleaned them, be sure to protect them with a fog and rain repellent too, so that they stay clearer for longer. Oh… and don’t forget the roof! The last thing you want is a spell of rain to fetch down all that dirt onto your newly cleaned windows.

Keep a Dehumidifier in Your Car

Help reduce the condensation collected on your interior windows with a dehumidifier/moisture absorber. These handy little boxes can be found for less than £5 and help to trap excess moisture in the air. Some dehumidifiers also double up as air fresheners too!

Create and Emergency Breakdown Kit

Breaking down at any time of year can be scary and dangerous, but a cold winter night? Even more so. Make sure you’re prepared in the event of a break down by packing a bag of essentials that will ensure you stay warm and safe in the event of an emergency. Some of these could include: a power bank for your phone, a torch, a bottle of water and snacks, a hat, gloves and scarf, an extra jacket, hand warmers, a blanket, a hazard warning sign and a Hi Vis vest. Of course, you can alter your emergency kit as you see fit .