Winter tires on a snow covered road ()
Here are a few winter driving tips while you are stationed in Europe.
Winter tires have a mountain and snowflake logo, while M+S is on all-season tires for “mud and snow.” You are required to use them if they match the conditions where you are driving.
Snow chains may also be required on mountain passes or unplowed roads.
Make sure windshield wipers are in excellent shape, and top up with windshield washing fluid that has an anti-freezing additive.
Keep an ice scraper and insulated gloves in your car so that you can remove snow and ice. Driving without clearing your entire vehicle is illegal in some countries.
Cover your windshield with an old bed sheet at night to prevent frost from forming.
Keep a flashlight, blanket, phone charger, snacks and bottled water in your car in case you are stranded.
Confirm that the engine’s anti-freeze level and strength are adequate.
Diesel fuel is sensitive to cold and can gel or solidify. Many European countries set standards for fuel stations to switch to a blended “winter diesel” with additives to help slow the solidifying process, but during extremely cold conditions the fuel may still thicken. Block heaters can also be installed to help warm the engine in very cold areas.
