During the coldest months, drivers are urged to stay within the speed limit and avoid sudden, sharp moves on the road. This advice mirrors the guidance reported by Rossiyskaya Gazeta, drawing on insights from Maxim Ryazanov, the technical director of a leading fresh automotive market segment. The overarching message is clear: winter driving demands calm, deliberate actions, and every maneuver should be measured to preserve traction and control on slick surfaces. The underlying idea is not merely to coast through winter but to adopt a safety-focused mindset that minimizes the risk of skids and collisions when road conditions are unpredictable. [Source: Rossiyskaya Gazeta]
Ryazanov emphasizes that Russian drivers, and by extension drivers in cold climates anywhere, should aim to reduce abrupt changes in speed and steering, particularly in snow and ice. Even a modest increase in pace can erode the tire grip needed to navigate turns safely. The expert also underscores the importance of maintaining clean optics, mirrors, and windows. Good visibility is non-negotiable in blizzards and snowstorms, where visibility can rapidly deteriorate and reaction times must be swift. Keeping headlights clean and properly aimed, removing snow from windshields and mirrors, and ensuring wipers function well all play a crucial role in preventing accidents. [Source: Rossiyskaya Gazeta]
Another key detail concerns winter tires and adherence to proper installation timelines. While swapping tires in the off-season might seem routine, winter-specific tires provide markedly better traction in cold temperatures, slush, and snow. Using non-seasonal tires when winter arrives can seriously compromise braking and handling, increasing the likelihood of collisions. Industry experts advise scheduling tire changes in advance and verifying that the tire tread and rubber compound are appropriate for freezing conditions. [Source: Rossiyskaya Gazeta]
In winter, vehicles can face starting problems due to the strain that severe frost places on all systems. Batteries may falter, fuel systems can misbehave, and engines might struggle to ignite if the fuel is substandard or degraded by low temperatures. In some cases, starting issues arise from a dirty throttle body or clogged injectors, components that require periodic cleaning. Regular maintenance routines, including checking the battery, fuel quality, and intake cleanliness, help reduce the odds of a cold-start failure. [Source: Rossiyskaya Gazeta]
The impact of deep frost on service demand is well documented in regional trends. In Russia, as temperatures plummet, the volume of calls to car services and roadside assistance tends to rise. The pattern reflects the higher likelihood of battery drains, frozen fuel lines, and other winter-related faults that can catch drivers off guard. Vehicle owners who plan ahead—keeping spare parts, ensuring proper fluid levels, and scheduling preventive checks before the coldest weeks—often experience fewer emergencies on the road. [Source: Rossiyskaya Gazeta]