Vehicle knowledge, tyres and maintenance
Vehicle knowledge, tyres and maintenance questions check whether you can spot defects before they become roadside failures. Norway’s inspection and winter conditions make tyre condition, lights, brakes and fluids especially important.
Tyres and grip
Summer tyres need at least 1.6 mm tread; winter tyres need at least 3 mm when winter conditions require them. Check pressure when tyres are cold and follow the car maker’s figures, including for a full load. Look for cuts, bulges and uneven wear. Rotate tyres as recommended and replace aged tyres even if tread remains.
Checks and systems
Test lights, indicators, brake lights and horn regularly. Check engine oil, coolant, brake fluid and washer fluid; top up only to the marked level. Listen for brake noise and feel for pulling or vibration. Keep the battery and charging system healthy, particularly in cold weather. Know where the warning triangle, jack and spare or repair kit are.
Worked example
Before a winter trip you find a front tyre at 2.4 mm and the spare at 1.8 mm. The front is below the 3 mm winter minimum, so you replace it. You set pressures to the loaded-car specification and check that the brake lights work.
Traps
A legal tread depth is not the same as good winter grip; performance drops well before the limit. Do not check pressure after a long drive and then release air. Do not ignore a dashboard warning light because the car still drives. Never use a space-saver spare as a normal tyre.