Carry out the necessary preparations and inspections before driving the vehicle in winter. Always drive the vehicle in a manner appropriate to the prevailing weather conditions.

 - Pre-winter preparations

• Use fluids that are appropriate to the prevailing outside tempera- tures.

• Engine oil

• Engine coolant

• Washer fluid

• Have a service technician inspect the level and specific gravity of battery electrolyte.

• Have the vehicle fitted with four snow tires or purchase a set of tire chains for the rear tires.

Ensure that all tires are the same size and brand, and that chains match the size of the tires.

Before driving the vehicle

Perform the following according to the driving conditions:

• Do not try to forcibly open a window or move a wiper that is fro- zen. Pour warm water over the frozen area to melt the ice. Wipe away the water immediately to prevent it from freezing.

• To ensure proper operation of the climate control system fan, remove any snow that has accumulated on the air inlet vents in front of the windshield.

• Remove any ice that has accumulated on the vehicle chassis.

• Periodically check for and remove any excess ice or snow that may have accumulated in the wheel well or on the brakes.

When driving the vehicle

Accelerate the vehicle slowly and drive at a reduced speed suitable to road conditions.

When parking the vehicle

Park the vehicle and move the shift lever to P without setting the parking brake. The parking brake may freeze up, preventing it from being released. If necessary, block the wheels to prevent inadvert- ent sliding or creeping.

• Selecting tire chains
• Regulations on the use of tire chains