With the ice, here are the tips to prepare your car and hold on the road – France

Start by demisting and thoroughly cleaning the windshields (front and rear) without forgetting the windows. Good visibility is essential for safe driving in slippery conditions.

To remove ice from the windshield, you can use the vehicle’s electric defroster. But you will have to wait several minutes. On the other hand, pouring hot water on the frozen windows of your car is useless. It is even dangerous: the water could refreeze if the temperatures are too low, and with the thermal shock, this action risks causing cracks, or even shattering the glass. If your windshield is frozen, bring a scraper with a handle and gloves instead, or opt for a de-icing spray.

You can heat your key with a lighter or matches before inserting it into the lock. Repeat this action two to three times, your lock should open without difficulty. In any case: do not force.

To avoid damaging the seals, it is better to use a protective product designed for rubber, rather than boiling water.

In addition to reducing your speed, more than ever, you have to look far ahead – and to the sides – in order to anticipate your maneuvers but also the nature of the terrain, events or unforeseen events: bends, hills, vehicles blocking the road or slowing down suddenly… The objective is to avoid any sudden movement of the steering wheel, violent braking or sudden acceleration. This requires keeping increased safety distances with the vehicle or vehicles in front. To stop your vehicle, arrive at an intersection or a bend, approach a descent, you must start slowing down very early and gradually, using the engine brake. Conversely, gain a little speed before starting a climb.

From the front (understeer): ease off the throttle and wait for the front axle to regain grip, without oversteering or braking. From the rear (oversteer): countersteer gently without braking and accelerate lightly and smoothly.

Beware of icy areas: bridges, wetlands, near vistas, forests, etc. On the four lanes: give priority to salting machines and drive in their tracks.