Will My Vehicle Make It Through a Wintry Mountain Drive?

Extremes of weather and location can make for very different driving conditions. A hot, sunny climate may seem attractive to some, for example, but it can also be hazardous for various reasons. The same is true of wintry conditions, where low temperatures and weather extremes, particularly in mountainous areas, can present significant challenges for your car. You may be wondering whether your vehicle will make it through a wintry mountain drive. Here are five things to consider from our team at Sheehy Nissan Glen Burnie when you need to decide whether your car is fit for the terrain ahead.

Gas mileage. Fuel economy may not be the first consideration you make, but it's worth bearing in mind that there probably aren't that many gas stations located in your average mountain range. If you intend to take a car on a drive through the mountains, you want to be sure that it can cover a reasonable distance. Even if you fill the tank, a gas guzzling monster may not always be the best bet, unless you intend to carry lots of spare fuel.

Power. Mountainous driving is, by default, likely to feature a lot of inclines of varying steepness, and if you have a car with very low brake horsepower and torque, then you may struggle to get the vehicle to the top of those hills. Even if you are able to do so, if you are driving a small, under-powered car it could be very frustrating for other road users, who may be unable to overtake you.

Comfort. Do you really want to drive around the mountains in a basic, uncomfortable car that has no luxuries? Bear in mind that the temperature is likely to drop considerably, if your car has no heating function in operation, then a wintry, mountain drive is apt to be very miserable for all concerned. Without a car stereo, you may not be able to listen to music or catch weather alerts on the radio. Think about whether your car is really suited to this kind of driving.

Off-road capability. Mountain driving sometimes presents challenges. The road surface may deteriorate or may become difficult to pass due to snow, ice, and slush. If your car has no off-road capability then its tires and wheels may simply be unable to cope with the demands of the terrain. That could make you prone to have an accident, or could mean that you simply cannot get past certain stretches of road.

Size and capacity. When it comes to mountain driving, you need to make sure that you have room for all the appropriate emergency equipment that you need to take. This includes blankets, a snow shovel, flashlight, spare fuel, food, drink, towrope, and basic tools. If you drive a very small car, you may lnot have room to carry all this kit, particularly if you have luggage and passengers too. Think about whether you car allows you to prepare appropriately for mountainous driving.