Winter can be very hard on drivers, whether they’re driving a high-performance vehicle like BMW or any other brand. Conditions such as snow or ice are not only challenging to the car’s functionality but also to the driver. Here are important winter driving tips that will help you and your BMW avoid a crash this winter.
Winter Driving Tips
Even if your BMW is well prepared for winter, changing your behavior behind the wheel is essential. Here are some tips for driving in winter conditions.
- Drive Slowly and Smoothly: Winter roads are usually dangerous because of ice and snow. One has to slow down and avoid sharp turns on the road. Use the gas pedal, the brake, and the steering wheel gently to control your car. Sharp movements are dangerous because they make the tires lose their traction, and your BMW may slide and get involved in a collision.
- Increase Following Distance: It takes a longer distance to stop on icy or snowy roads as compared to dry roads. Aim at maintaining more space between you and the car or vehicle in front of you, so that you have enough time to respond appropriately. A good guideline that might be used is to increase the following distance to twice what you normally use. This extra space is very useful if the car in front suddenly comes to a stop so you have enough room to avoid a collision.
- Use Your Headlights: In winter, there are challenges such as poor visibility occasioned by snow, fog, or even limited daylight. It is recommended to turn on your headlights at any time of the day to increase the visibility of your car to other drivers. This will help to avoid an accident as other drivers will be able to notice you even when there is poor visibility.
- Be Cautious on Bridges: Bridges and overpasses are always likely to be the first to freeze because they are always open to cold air from all directions. One has to be very careful while driving on such roads as they freeze even when other roads are not icy. Drive at a slower speed and do not accelerate or decelerate quickly to ensure better control over the car.
- Avoid Cruise Control: Driving a BMW with cruise control in winter is not safe at all. If for example, your car has a skidding moment, cruise control can make your wheels spin, making it difficult for you to regain control of the vehicle. It is recommended to always control the speed manually while driving on winter roads to be able to respond to the changes in road conditions.
- Stay Off the Roads During Severe Weather: If the weather conditions are extreme it is advisable not to venture out on the roads. Be careful on the roads and watch out for any weather changes. Make sure you do not drive during a snowstorm. If you have to drive, ensure that you share your planned route and the time you expect to be arriving at the destination.
Regular Maintenance
Maintenance should be done throughout the year, but it is important especially when winter is around the corner. Ensure you stick to your BMW’s maintenance schedule and be sure to fix any problems that your BMW has before the winter begins. Regular maintenance of your car will go a long way in avoiding breakdowns and will see your car do well in the cold weather. It is recommended to check the fluids and add some more if necessary, check your battery, and also check your tires.
Our Experts Can Get Your BMW Road Ready For The Winter Season
If you are looking for a trusted shop that can 
help with your Mercedes, BMW, and Audi repairs, come to us at Momentum Motorworks. We have been serving drivers in Birmingham, AL, for more than 25 years, and our BMW technicians can handle any issues your car has. Our services also extend to BMW drivers from Alabaster, Homewood, Helena, Mountain Brook, Hoover, and Vestavia, AL.
If you want to prepare your BMW for winter with quality maintenance, you can bring it to us. We have a comprehensive checklist for winter road readiness. Call us now at 205-403-4626.