Tips for driving in winter in India

Winter in India offers a break from the heat, but it also brings with it some unique driving challenges. From icy roads to dense fog (or as Delhi likes to call it: SMOG), winter requires special preparation and care to ensure your travels are safer. Here you will find important tips to ensure that you and your car are prepared for the colder months.

Have your vehicle serviced

Winter can be harsh on vehicles, especially in regions like northern India and the Himalayas where it can snow. Regular maintenance is very important to avoid breakdowns. Before the onset of winter, have your car serviced and replace wearing parts such as brake pads, belts and batteries. A well-maintained vehicle means fewer breakdowns on frosty mornings or cold nights.

Test your battery

Cold temperatures can drain your battery faster than usual. Before winter, check the condition and charge of your battery. If your battery is nearing the end of its life, replace it to avoid being left out in the cold. It would be a good idea to have jumper cables handy.

Keep windows and lights clean

Fog and ice can limit visibility, which is why clean windows and lights are important. Keep your car windows, mirrors and lights clean regularly with lukewarm water. Avoid using hot water as the temperature difference can cause the glass to shatter. Before driving, defrost the windows with the window heating.

Check the wiper and washer fluid

Winter dirt, frost and dirt can reduce the visibility of your windshield. Check your wiper blades and replace them if they are worn. Use winter-specific washer fluid to prevent freezing and keep your windshield clear.

Fun fact: In Russia, some drivers use vodka instead of washer fluid for their cars! Why? Because vodka doesn’t freeze, making it a practical yet unconventional solution to the harsh sub-zero temperatures. Is this a clever trick or is her vodka love just a little too far? You decide!

Check tire traction

Your tires are super important in the winter. Check the tread depth and make sure they are suitable for slippery roads. Correct tire pressure is equally important – too high a tire pressure can cause skidding, while too low a tire pressure can affect traction. To ensure that you use snow chains and winter tires in snowy regions.

Fog driving 101

Fog can make short journeys difficult. Use fog lights and low beams to improve visibility – high beams only reflect the fog and make the situation worse. Reduce your speed and maintain a safe distance from other vehicles so that you have enough reaction time to brake or maneuver if necessary.

Learn winter driving techniques

Proper driving in winter is key. Avoid sudden braking, sharp turns or rapid acceleration as this can lead to skidding. If your car has a winter or snow mode, use it to prevent loss of traction. On roads with lower traction, it may be beneficial to start in second gear instead of first to maintain control.

Bonus: This one is for electric vehicle owners

Winter can affect the performance of your electric vehicle, especially the performance of the lithium-ion battery, which typically occurs at lower temperatures. To maintain efficiency, owners can avoid parking their electric vehicles outdoors for long periods of time and even forego constant fast charging. Ensuring that the battery level does not drop below 20 percent can ensure long battery life and prevent range loss in colder climates.

Be ready for winter

Driving in winter requires a mix of preparation and caution. From maintaining your car to learning how to deal with fog and ice. With these tips you will be prepared for the challenges of the cold season. So get ready, drive smart and enjoy safe and comfortable winter driving!