South Africa’s first major cold front of winter hit on Wednesday, with temperatures expected to remain around 20°C and below until next Thursday. As the cold sets in, drivers are urged to prepare both themselves and their vehicles for the change in weather.

MasterDrive CEO Eugene Herbert says colder conditions pose seasonal risks. “There are several steps that can reduce the risk that naturally comes with the change of season,” he explains.

Drivers should check oil levels, tyre pressure, and tread regularly, as colder weather affects performance. Ensure windscreen wipers are in good condition, washer fluid is topped up with freeze-resistant liquid, and park indoors when possible to protect batteries.

On the road, reduce speed in wet or misty conditions, increase following distances, avoid cruise control, and use fog lights instead of high beams. With proper precautions, drivers can navigate winter roads more safely and confidently.

How to prepare your vehicle:

• Colder weather makes oil denser. Check oil levels are correct and ensure it is not too full either, as this can create problems too.
• Check the tyre tread regularly as tyres also tend to have more wear and tear in cold weather.
• Check the tyre pressure. For every 10⁰C the weather drops, tyre pressure drops as well.
• Additionally, do not be hasty to inflate your tyres if the warning light shows in the morning but rather give the air time to warm up first.
• Some vehicles alert drivers about oil and air pressure levels but for the rest, regular checks are important.
• Look out for perished windscreen wipers. Even in dry winter areas, there can be condensation, and windscreens tend to get dirtier.
• Check the washer fluid levels and use a freeze prevention washer fluid in below zero weather.
• During frigid weather, coolant lowers the freezing point of vehicle fluids and keeps it liquid while circulating through the engine.
• Limit damages to the battery by parking inside if possible, doing regular maintenance on lead acid batteries if required, and avoid leaving vehicles standing for extended periods.

How to prepare yourself as a driver:

• Exert extra caution when temperatures drop below freezing or if it rains during winter in your province: increase following distances, do not use cruise control, avoid pooled water on the road, and drive with extra care in places where ice is common like under bridges.
• Reduce your speed in difficult conditions like on wet roads or in mist.
• In mist, do not switch your lights to bright as it reflects off mist and further reduces visibility. Rather use fog lights or low beams.
• Try to only use emergency lights if you are stationary.
• Avoid sudden lane changes or erratic driving which other drivers may not react to timeously
• Brake more cautiously and well before time.
• Further reduce speed around corners.
• If you do not already switch headlights on with every trip, ensure they are on now.