Winter Tips: Prepare your vehicle safely for winter
With winter just around the corner, it's vital to prepare your vehicle for the harsh conditions. From choosing the right tyres to adapting your driving style and checking that you have the right equipment, discover our practical advice on how to drive safely and peacefully during the cold season.
A few winter tips
The winter season brings its own challenges for motorists. Slippery roads, intense cold and unexpected breakdowns can quickly turn your daily journeys into a veritable ordeal. But don't worry! With a little preparation and vigilance, you can avoid these inconveniences. Here's our practical advice to help you prepare your vehicle and adopt the right reflexes at the wheel this winter.
Winter tyres: a must in winter conditions
In Luxembourg, the use of winter tyres has been regulated since 1 October 2012. It is compulsory to use them in winter conditions on public roads in the Grand Duchy.
Failure to comply with this rule will result in a fine of 74 euros. The need for winter tyres depends on weather and road conditions, with no fixed dates for fitting or removal. These regulations apply all year round, as soon as weather conditions allow.
Tip: Make sure you change your tyres on time. Driving on summer tyres in winter is just as dangerous as driving on winter tyres in summer.
Prepare your vehicle for winter conditions
In addition to tyres, here is a list of essential checks to be carried out before winter:
- Essential fluids: Check oil, brake fluid and coolant levels and use antifreeze windscreen washer fluid.
- Battery: Test it, especially if it is more than three years old, as the cold can reduce its performance.
- Lighting: Make sure that all your headlights and lights are working perfectly for optimum visibility.
- Windscreen wipers: Replace if necessary to ensure a clear view in rain or snow.
The essentials to keep in your car
To cope with the unexpected in winter, equip your car with a few essentials: a safety waistcoat and a triangle (compulsory), a torch for night-time breakdowns, a blanket and a bottle of water for long stops, as well as a raclette and a de-icer to clean the windows quickly. These small pieces of equipment can make all the difference in the event of a problem.
Adapt your driving to winter conditions
Take care when the road is slippery. Reduce your speed, increase your safety distances and avoid any sudden braking or movements to limit the risk of skidding. Before setting off, clear all snow and ice from your vehicle, including the roof, for better visibility and increased safety. If your wheels slip when you start up, use second gear for a smooth start.
Make sure you have all your documents
Check that the necessary documents are in your car : vehicle registration document, insurance certificate, accident declaration, valid tax sticker. These elements are essential if you are to drive legally and deal with any unforeseen circumstances.
A few extra tips for winter
Plan your journeys by checking the weather conditions at and favour the main roads, which are often clearer. Keep an eye on sensitive areas such as bridges and forests, which can be particularly slippery. Above all, stay alert in all circumstances: it's better to arrive a little later than to take unnecessary risks .
With these few simple tips, you are ready to face the winter roads with peace of mind. Take care and have a safe journey! ❄️
