As soon as the sky gets dark and the roads become wet, you have to be more careful when driving your BMW. Whether you are experiencing rain, snow, ice, or fog, it is important to learn how to drive your BMW in these conditions for your safety and the safety of other road users. Here is a detailed checklist that will assist you in driving your BMW safely during extreme weather conditions.
Prepare Your BMW
Before you take your BMW on the road, it is important that it is ready to withstand the weather conditions. Take a look at your tires to make sure they have adequate tread and are filled with air to the right pressure. Worn tires can cause poor grip, especially when the weather conditions are wet or icy. If you are driving in a place where there is a lot of snow and ice in the winter, then it may be best to use winter tires.
Make sure that the wipers of your windshield are working properly. Visibility is paramount, especially in poor weather conditions, and this can be compromised by worn-out wiper blades that either streak or do not wipe the glass clean. Ensure that you use a washer fluid that is not likely to freeze in cold temperatures when you are filling your washer fluid reservoir.
It is also advisable to have an emergency survival kit in your automobile in case you are stranded and some of the items that should be in the kit include a blanket, flashlight, and some non-perishable foods.
Slow Down
One of the most effective pieces of advice that one can be given about driving in unfavorable conditions is to reduce speed. Driving on wet, icy, or snowy roads can be dangerous since the roads are slippery and it takes a longer time to brake or turn. Slowing down decreases the chances of an accident because you will have enough time to respond in case something unexpected happens. Do not hurry; it is better to be late than to arrive with a crashed car.
Increase Following Distance
Under normal weather conditions, it is recommended that a driver maintains a distance of three seconds behind the vehicle in front of him. However, in adverse conditions, this distance should be increased to at least six seconds. This additional time allows you to be able to brake if the car in front of you slows down or applies the brakes suddenly.
Use Your Headlights
Switch on your headlights to enhance your vision and visibility of your BMW to other motorists on the road. This is important in rain, fog, or snow. If your BMW comes with fog lights, use them in dense fog to have a better vision and for other drivers to have a better vision of your car.
Avoid Sudden Movements
Sudden acceleration, turn, or braking can cause your BMW to lose traction and skid. Avoid any sudden or jerky movements and always ensure that the movements are slow and calculated. If you have to slow down, ease your foot off the accelerator and let your BMW slow down gently. When braking, ensure that you do it smoothly to prevent the wheels from locking.
Avoid Cruise Control
Cruise control is quite useful when the weather conditions are good but can be very risky when the weather is bad. Applying cruise control on slippery roads increases the chances of the car accelerating or decelerating without the driver’s control. Manual speed control should be used when the weather is bad.
Come To Motor Cars International For Your BMW Care
Since the inception of Motor Cars International, we have been the premier repair shop for popular European automobiles such as BMW, Mercedes Benz, Mini, Audi, Volkswagen, and Porsche in Bridgewater MA. We also cater to other nearby areas like Easton, Norton, Raynham, and Sharon.
From basic servicing to major overhauls, we guarantee that our work is done to industry standards. At Motor Cars International, your BMW’s performance and durability are the most important things to us. If you would like us to assist you in preparing your BMW for adverse conditions contact us on 508-697-5921.