Gadgets can make winter driving easier.
Getty Images
published
Safe in ice and coldThese nine car gadgets are worthwhile in winter
The battery is on strike, the windows are covered with ice and it’s freezing cold inside: driving in winter is often a real challenge. These nine gadgets can help.
- von
- Fabio Simeon / A&W Verlag
09 – Battery tests
Anyone who leaves their car parked for a long time in the cold season knows the problem: the car won’t start, the battery is dead – or is it? Replacing the battery is not only bad for the environment, but also for your wallet. Multimeters and battery testers provide certainty. They indicate whether the energy storage is weak or defective.
08 – Start Booster
If the engine no longer starts due to a weak battery, a start booster can help. The battery pack supplies the starter battery with the power it needs to start. If not boosted, the battery serves as a power bank.
07 – Warming Blanket
Admittedly, in our latitudes, snowstorms are not blizzards. Nevertheless, they often cause long waits by paralyzing traffic. You can then (even in the e-car) heat for a while, but at some point the tank and battery will be empty. It is therefore advisable to carry a warm blanket with you.
06 – Granulate dehumidifier
Dehumidifier bags ensure dryness: They are filled with granules and absorb up to 500 grams of moisture. They should be stowed accordingly. Otherwise they mutate into projectiles in the event of an emergency stop. Add to that their steep prices. Cotton bags filled with cat litter are just as effective, but more environmentally friendly and cost-effective.
05 – Eiskratzer
If winter is just around the corner and so is the car, the ice scraper is used every day. When purchasing it, the flexibility of the plastic should be the main selling point. The individual models also differ in their blades. Depending on the manufacturer, plastic, bronze or brass is used for this. The latter are more durable, but cause damage to the paintwork and seals if used carelessly.
04 – Windshield Cover
The simple windscreen cover offers a more convenient solution than scratching – but only if it involves high-quality materials and good workmanship. This also includes the magnets for attachment. But beware: Light plastic or cardboard covers are often blown away by the wind.
03- Steering wheel cover
The steering wheel cover ensures both better grip and more safety, and it also prevents “ice picks” on the steering wheel. A conditional upgrade of the “fleecy” is its heated counterpart: Firstly, the vehicles with a 12V output are constantly thinning out in the cockpit, secondly, the heated fur tempts people to use it while driving, which is forbidden.
02 – Traction mat
If you get stuck in the snow, you shouldn’t freak out, but use a starting aid. This also includes traction mats. Although they don’t offer the same grip as snow chains, they are quicker to use and easy to store.
01 – Heated seat pad
Hardly any new car leaves the factory today without heated seats. What used to be considered a feudal extra is becoming more and more standard. Those who do not have them in series can retrofit with heated seat cushions. But beware: The seat warmer needs a lot of energy, which primarily only speaks for long-distance use. In addition, the pad should fit snugly into the seat, otherwise there is a risk of slipping.
Hot news from the world of cars and mobility, the latest models being tested and expert columns on legal and technical issues: all of this awaits you when you subscribe to Auto-Push.
That’s how it’s done: Install the latest version of the 20 minute app. Tap on “Cockpit” in the bottom right, then on the “Settings” cog and finally on “Push notifications”. At the point “Themes” you tap on “Auto” – it’s up and running.