Avoid Emergency Automotive Repairs: How to Drive in Snow!

Winter driving is just around the corner and when snow is added to the mix, the potential for automotive disaster can increase exponentially. Of course, if an accident occurs, some form of auto repairs are a certainty.

To prevent an accident and avoid emergency automotive repairs, here are a few crucial points to remember while braving snow-covered roads. Follow these tips, and you might even look forward to cold weather driving!

• Slow, Turn, Go!
  
  Cars can only do three things: brake, turn and accelerate. Vehicles are much easier to control when those actions are performed separately. For example, let's say you're approaching a sharp bend on a snowy road; first, gently apply the brakes in advance of the turn. After taking your foot off the brake, coast through the corner while slowly turning the wheel. Only after you've exited the turn and straightened the steering wheel, gently accelerate. Performing these three maneuvers separately is key to road safety and avoiding potential emergency auto repairs.

• Limit Your Speed, and Think Ahead!
  
  Excessive speed is the single biggest reason people lose control in the snow. Slowing down will give you enough wiggle room to correct your course in case your vehicle loses control. Did you know that it takes as much as 4 to 10 times longer to stop in ice and snow. Adjusting your speed to the respective driving conditions is crucial to road safety.

• If You Start to Slide…
  
  … don't panic! A proper response will ensure that car control is regained. If the vehicle over-steers (i.e., the back end swings out), accelerate lightly in order to transfer weight to the rear and to increase traction. It may feel counterintuitive to press the gas pedal while a car is sliding, but that action can straighten out the tail-happy yawing motion. Conversely, if the car under-steers (i.e., slides forward without turning), straightening the steering and gently touching the brakes will shift more weight over the front wheels and enable the tires to "bite" again. As with all winter driving maneuvers, using a gentle hand and foot on the gas, brake or steering wheel is the most effective way to recover from a slide.

We want you to stay safely on the road with good automotive repairs and vehicle maintenance. Contact our ASE Certified Technicians for at Discount Brake by calling (763) 205-3995 or go towww.discountbrake.net for more information on auto repairs. Our auto shop in Blaine, MN also proudly serves residents in the areas of Fridley, and Spring Lake Park, Minnesota.