Driving in winter
Driving in winter
Driving in winter can be hazardous for someone with no previous experience. The most important thing is to drive carefully - accelerating, stopping and turning take longer on snow-covered, icy roads. Please read our tips how to drive safely during winter.
Finland's emergency number: 112
Roadside assistance 24/7: +358 (0)10 436 2285
Reservation center (mon-fri 08:00-16:00): +358 (0)10 436 2200
Black ice and snow tires
When winter approaches and temperature drops, the roads get easily black ice. When driving in autumn or winter it is important to pay attention to the road surface and black ice.
Snow chains are not being used in Finland. Rental cars in Finland will always have winter tires when the season or law dictates. Studded winter tires are the most common winter tires used in Finland.
Warm-up the engine
When the temperature drops below zero, it's recommended to use the engine heater before taking off. All Avis rental cars in Finland have an engine heater which works by pressing the on-button for 1-2 seconds. When you are using the heater for the first time, we recommend checking whether the engine heater is on after pressing the button.
Windscreen wipers
Windscreen wipers can freeze. This doesn't mean they are broken. Turn on the
windscreen warmer and your windscreen wipers will melt and star to work normally. If the weather is under -10C we recommend to lift the windscreen wipers when the car is parked for a longer period of time. That prevents them form freezing to the windscreen.
Animals
Please note the traffic signs of elks next to the roads. These signs are warnings about places where elks usually cross roads. When you see the signs, you should slow down and observe the roadside. You might also see reindeers walking on the road when driving in Lapland.
Emergencies and breakdowns
When driving in cold weather it is good to carry along winter clothes even though there would be warn in the car due to the warming of the car. In case of emergency you should have warm hat, scarf, pair of winter shoes, winter coat and pants.
In winter, your car may get stuck in the snow or you may have other technical difficulties due to cold weather. In case of technical issues contact our breakdown assistance 010 436 2285. If you are unsure where to call please contact our reservation center 010 436 2200. In case of an emergency or accident, call to 112 which is Finland’s emergency number.