How to drive in snow??? SKODA Octavia III Hatchback (5E3, NL3, NR3) (11.2012 - ...)

1. Ensure your car is equipped with winter tires.
2. Plan your actions in advance. Drive cautiously on turns, double your braking distance on wet roads, and triple it on snow or ice. Stay alert for safe driving.
3. Use smooth steering, acceleration, and braking. Avoid sudden braking, rapid acceleration, sharp turns, or quick lane changes for better control on snowy roads.

Driving in snow for the first time can be daunting, but with the right techniques and mindset, you can stay safe and confident in your Skoda Octavia. Here are expert tips tailored for snowy conditions in the UK:

Clear your car thoroughly before setting off: remove all snow and ice from windows, mirrors, lights, roof, and number plates to ensure visibility and legality.

Start off gently in second gear (if manual) to reduce wheelspin. For automatics, check if your Octavia has a “snow” or “winter” mode and use it if available.

Accelerate and brake smoothly: avoid harsh inputs to prevent skidding. Use engine braking by cycling down gears instead of relying heavily on the brake pedal.

Maintain a large gap—up to 10 times the normal stopping distance—from the vehicle ahead to allow plenty of time to stop safely.

Drive slowly and cautiously: reduce your speed well below usual limits, especially on bends and hills. Avoid sudden steering movements.

Approach hills and corners carefully: keep a steady speed uphill without changing gears and brake before turning, not during the turn.

If you start to skid, stay calm: gently steer into the skid (steer in the direction the rear is sliding), avoid braking suddenly, and ease off the accelerator.

Plan your route on main roads which are more likely to be gritted and cleared regularly, avoiding B-roads if possible.

Wear comfortable, dry footwear and ensure your vehicle is prepared with winter tires or good tread, and carry essentials like a scraper and de-icer.

Give yourself extra time for journeys and allow your car to warm up and de-ice properly before driving.

By following these tips, you’ll improve your control and confidence driving your Skoda Octavia in snowy conditions. Always prioritize safety and consider postponing non-essential trips if conditions are severe.

Clear snow fully, start in second gear, accelerate and brake gently, keep large gaps, drive slowly, steer into skids calmly, and use main roads where possible. These steps will help you handle snow safely as a new winter driver.