'Alarming' number of drivers don't do winter checks

Three in ten Irish motorists don't ever, or rarely perform winter checks on their cars, according to a survey conducted by motor insurer AA Ireland, writes Brian Byrne. The survey of 1,821 of the company's customers was done ahead of the winter blast that saw many stranded by snowy conditions across the southern part of the country.

AA Ireland says that figure is 'alarming' and urges motorists to carry out checks that include coolant and windscreen wash levels, tyres and battery condition — both of those last become critical in sub-zero driving conditions.

Simple measures such as checking tyre pressures and thread depths, replacing worn wipers, and carrying an emergency kit can make a significant difference during colder months. As temperatures continue to drop, it’s important to watch out for Met Eireann weather warnings in your area, the advice would be avoid unnecessary journeys where possible. Always allow extra time for any winter journeys as traffic can occasionally be heavier than usual.  

Stay safe this winter with Winter Driver Training

With the start of wintery weather this week, the BMW Winter Driver Training Programme offers drivers the opportunity to brush up on how to drive in snow and ice, and learning how to cope with many problems we may face on the road, writes Trish Whelan.

The BMW Winter Driver Training Programme, delivered by Rally School Ireland, combines practical advice with crucial driving experience on their special Winter Driver Training circuit which replicates urban and winding rural roads in wet, icy and snowy conditions.

Rally School Ireland's course includes theoretical instruction followed by application of the theory in simulated live situations. You learn how to reduce your reaction time, improve your car control, and learn skid recovery. You also get to learn so much more, as I discovered when I took the course a few years ago, including the difference when driving on winter tyres over summer ones in wintery conditions, and undertaking emergency lane change tests.

The course is designed for new and recently qualified drivers, business and high mileage drivers, nervous drivers, emergency response drivers, or anyone who has experienced difficulty in the past driving in winter conditions.

The cost is from €175 per person and there are special group/company rates available. To book a course or buy a voucher as a gift, call 047 89098. Visit www.rallyschoolireland.ie for more information. It's based at Gola, Scotstown in Co Monaghan.

Rally School Ireland BMW winter driving training

For those who don’t feel comfortable driving in snow and ice, and who could do with some winter driving training, Rally School Ireland’s winter driving training course will be of huge benefit in boosting driver confidence as well as car control, writes Trish Whelan. I know how beneficial this course is because, I’ve done it.

Their BMW Winter Driver Training Programme combines good practical advise with invaluable driving experience on their own circuit which replicates urban and winding rural roads in wet, icy and snowy conditions.

It will help reduce your reaction time, improve your car control and raise your confidence level as you learn things like skid recovery, the difference between driving on winter wheels and tyres over summer tyres, as well as object avoidance using the car’s Anti-Lock Braking System (ABS).

To book a course or buy a voucher, call them on 1890 269 569 (1890 BMW Joy) or visit bmwdrivertraining.ie. Prices are from €140 per person, special group/company rates are available.

How to start your car in the bleak midwinter

Driver training specialist IAM Drive & Survive's head of training, Simon Elstow, this week advises on how to prepare a cold car before you set off.

His six tips to avoid seasonal car problems are:

* Don't switch on the engine until you are ready to go; a modern car does not need to warm the engine up. Do put the engine on if you need to run the heater/demister before you move.

* Clean your windows inside and out - a dirty screen will cause the windows to mist up much quicker.

* Clean any snow off the car's roof and bonnet as well as windows.

* When you get in the car, make sure all the extra electrical things are turned off before you try starting it (lights, heater, etc).

* When you're ready to go, switch the engine and heater on (air con if you have fitted, it keeps the screen dry) so that the windows don't steam up.

* Use the 'ice' setting if your car has one.

He advises now is the time to check the battery and that your screen wash is the antifreeze version.

Fiat offers 10-point 'winter health check', free

Fiat Ireland is offering a free 10-point Winter Health Check at Fiat and Alfa Romeo dealerships to help owners handle what seems to be increasingly harsh and hazardous Irish winters.

The check focuses on areas which are particularly vulnerable during the winter months but which cannot be checked without specialist equipment. The coolant system, auxiliary drive belts, engine fluid levels and battery health are all examined but basics such as lights, tyres, brakes, windscreen wipers and washers are also included in the check.

If a technician finds that extra parts or fluids are needed, the customer will be contacted in advance to advise them of any additional costs involved.