Enjoy the Easter Bank Holiday!
The Institute of Advanced Motorists has responded to the fuel price hike in the Budget by putting together some useful tips to help motorists cut their Easter Bank Holiday fuel bills.
IAM Chief Examiner, Peter Rodger, said: “A rise of as little as 1p per litre will quickly add up. Simple measures such as looking well ahead and slowing down earlier instead of always using the brakes to slow down can make a real difference. A smoother driving style is the single best eco-driving tip. Good economical driving starts with safer driving and anticipation.”
Make each litre last longer over Easter with good journey planning and forward thinking behind the wheel.
PS – Take a look at our Easter Opening Hours here
- Sticking to 70mph, instead of 80mph, can save around 4p per mile.
- An empty car roof box can increase fuel consumption by 20% on a motorway – if it’s not needed, don’t take it. Read more…
Driving Tips: Snow
I travel in from Milton Keynes every day to Whetstone Audi and as you can imagine it has been a challenge with the recent weather. Here are some of the things I have been doing.
- I put a warm coat and boots into the car. I have also made a cup of tea in one of these cups that keep it warm on your journey.
- I check that there is enough washer fluid that does not freeze in the bottle. You will be amazed how often I use the washers with all the salt on the roads (sorry not much salt in the sides roads I know) .
- I also make sure that all the lights are working as I am very keen to see and be seen. Put a blanket in the car in case you are held up on the major routes. I am often told take a shovel with you , but if I am stuck it is usually because everyone is stuck. Then all I want is a snow plough. Read more…
Winter Driving Tips
Winter is a difficult time for the driver. The frost in the early morning and late evening, snow showers and shorter daylight hours all combine to make the driving experience harder. Regardless of how prepared your car may be, it is equally as important to modify your driving style.
Here’s some advice on safe winter driving..
Stopping distances in winter
- When roads are slippery it will take longer to stop. Up to 10 times longer.
- So, drop your speed, and give yourself more time to slow down and stop.
- Drive with care even if roads have been treated.
If your vehicle starts to skid:
- Depress the clutch. Do not brake!
- Turn the steering wheel into the direction of the skid.
- When the vehicle straightens, steer along the road. Read more…
Driving in Wind and Rain
Here at Audi, we are in the lucky position to have access to some powerful cars but as the winter draws closer it’s no good driving a powerful car if you can’t use the power on a slippery road.
So, as the weather worsens and the roads become more slippery, here are a few tips to help you cope with changing road conditions.
Driving Tips: Wind and Rain
Driving in the rain
- When the road’s wet, it can take up to twice as long to stop so it makes sense to slow down when it’s raining.
- If your vehicle loses its grip, or “aquaplanes”, on surface water take your foot off the accelerator to slow down.
- Don’t brake or steer suddenly because you have no control of the steering or Read more…
Paul Lacy - Aftersales Mgr
Hi, my name is Paul Lacy and I am the new Aftersales Manager for Whetstone Audi. I have been here for ten weeks now and enjoyed meeting some of you already. Our technicians loved running the ladies night recently and my front line team enjoyed the relaxed conversations that allowed us to get to know you better.
Following on from the huge response we got from running the ladies evening I have dared to write some top tips to keep you and your car safe this winter.
We’ve given you five practical steps to take. See below.
- Ensure washer fluid is topped up with fluid able to withstand freezing temperatures. With autumn roads throwing up rain dirt you want to see clearly at all times. We have all experienced that lorry or bus that covers our windscreen with spray from wheels.
- Wipe your headlights and tails lights with a wet wipe. You’ll be surprised how much better your lights are when they are kept clean. See and be seen! Read more…
