A motoring expert has shared the one item he believes every driver should have in their car this winter to avoid being stuck in the cold. Wet and icy weather conditions have swept across the UK, causing havoc on the roads, as the RAC has reported a huge surge in call-outs, with up to 20 breakdowns reported every minute.
And if you suffer a punctured tyre in frozen conditions, and with mobile technicians stretched to the limit, you could find yourself waiting much longer than normal for a rescue. As a result, experts are urging motorists to make sure they’re equipped with a puncture repair kit – and that they know how to use it properly.
Managing director at Select Car Leasing, Graham Conway, said: “It’s more important than ever for drivers to be prepared for the unexpected. Winter conditions can turn a minor inconvenience into a serious safety risk, particularly when temperatures drop below freezing and wait times for recovery services are stretched due to high demand.” For the latest Welsh news delivered to your inbox sign up to our newsletter.
He added: “The majority of modern cars now come with a puncture repair kit rather than a spare tyre. It’s a temporary fix that allows you to get back on the road, and to the nearest garage, rather than having to wait for a recovery van to carry you home. But the concern is that some motorists either don’t realise that a solution to their problem is potentially waiting for them in their boot, or that they don’t have a clue how to use the puncture repair kit in the first place.
“We urge all motorists to make themselves familiar with the devices before setting out onto frozen roads. It’s also worth bearing in mind that cold temperatures can lower tyre pressures, making them even more susceptible to a puncture in the first place.”
Most new cars will be equipped with a tyre inflation kit, which consists of a canister of tyre sealant and a mobile air compressor. The sealant is pumped into the tyre via the valve and plugs the hole from which air is escaping. Mr Conway added: “This is very much a quick fix to get you home or to the nearest garage and should not be used as a longer-term solution.”
Motorists can also purchase inexpensive emergency tyre ‘plugs’ – for around £8 from Amazon – but which require a greater level of expertise to use. Motorists need to locate the puncture, remove the offending item causing air to leak from the tyre, and then plug the gap with a piece of rubber via a special tool.
Tyre plugs, like tyre sealant, are a temporary fix and should never be used unless it’s an emergency and you need to make your way home or to the nearest garage. Research has found that only 3% of new cars are sold with a spare wheel, potentially leaving more drivers stranded in the event of a puncture.
Motorists also need to make sure they’re carrying a personal winter kit in their car at this time of year, should the worst happen and they do suffer a breakdown.
Mr Conway added: “There are a few essential items that everyone needs to carry with them if they’re heading out onto UK roads in wintry conditions. Pack warm clothes, a blanket, food and drink, and a torch in case you get caught out at night. You might want to carry a shovel and some de-icing salt, as well as jump leads and a tow rope, in case you need to get out of trouble in a hurry.
“Check your vehicle’s fluid levels, particularly the coolant/antifreeze, ensure your tyres are properly inflated and in good condition, make sure that your windscreen wipers are functioning and that your washer fluid is topped-up. Always allow extra time for journeys and avoid unnecessary trips when the weather is at its worst. While breakdowns can’t always be prevented, being well-prepared can make a world of difference. Having the right tools and essentials in your car means you’re ready to face the unexpected and stay safe, even in the toughest conditions.” Join our WhatsApp news community here for the latest breaking news. You will receive updates from us daily.