Señales de tráficoIslandia
Normas de tráfico
Islandia
151. Motor diésel
Un motor diésel es un motor de combustión interna que normalmente enciende el combustible mediante el calor generado por aire fuertemente comprimido, en lugar de utilizar bujías. Por esta razón también se conoce como motor de encendido por compresión.
Se utiliza habitualmente en automóviles, camiones, autobuses y maquinaria porque puede ofrecer un elevado par a bajas revoluciones y un uso eficiente del combustible. Los motores diésel modernos emplean sistemas de control de emisiones, como filtros de partículas y reducción catalítica selectiva, para reducir contaminantes nocivos.
How does a diesel engine work?
A diesel engine compresses air inside the cylinder until it becomes very hot. Diesel fuel is then injected into the compressed air and ignites because of the high temperature.
What is the difference between a diesel and petrol engine?
A diesel engine normally uses compression ignition, while a petrol engine normally uses spark plugs to ignite an air-fuel mixture. The two engine types also differ in fuel, combustion characteristics and emissions-control systems.
What emissions can a diesel engine produce?
Diesel engines can produce pollutants including nitrogen oxides and particulate matter or soot. Modern vehicles use systems such as diesel particulate filters and other emissions-control technologies to reduce these pollutants.
152. Motor eléctrico
Un motor eléctrico es una máquina que convierte energía eléctrica en potencia mecánica. En un vehículo eléctrico o híbrido, uno o varios motores eléctricos pueden proporcionar el par necesario para mover las ruedas.
Pueden entregar par desde velocidades muy bajas y funcionan sin el proceso de combustión utilizado por motores de gasolina o diésel. Durante el frenado regenerativo, algunos motores eléctricos también pueden actuar como generadores y convertir parte del movimiento del vehículo nuevamente en energía eléctrica.
What does an electric motor do in a vehicle?
An electric motor converts electrical energy into mechanical power that can propel the vehicle. Depending on the drivetrain, one or more motors may drive the wheels.
Do hybrid vehicles have electric motors?
Yes. Hybrid electric vehicles combine at least one electric propulsion motor with another propulsion-energy source, normally an internal-combustion engine.
Can an electric motor generate electricity?
Yes. In vehicles equipped with regenerative braking, the traction motor can operate as a generator while the vehicle slows down, converting part of its kinetic energy into electrical energy that can be stored in the traction battery.
153. Correa de distribución
Una correa de distribución es una correa dentada de un motor de combustión interna que sincroniza la rotación del cigüeñal y del árbol de levas para que las válvulas se abran y cierren en el momento correcto respecto al movimiento de los pistones.
Es un componente sujeto a desgaste y debe sustituirse conforme al programa de mantenimiento del fabricante. Si se desgasta excesivamente o se rompe, el motor puede detenerse de forma repentina y, en muchos diseños, pueden producirse graves daños internos.
What does a timing belt do?
The timing belt synchronises the crankshaft and camshaft so that the pistons and valves move in the correct sequence while the engine is operating.
When should a timing belt be replaced?
The replacement interval depends on the vehicle and engine. Drivers should follow the manufacturer's specified mileage and age interval rather than waiting for obvious symptoms of wear.
What happens if a timing belt breaks?
The engine will stop operating and, depending on the engine design, the pistons and valves can collide and cause severe internal engine damage.
154. Bujía de precalentamiento
Una bujía de precalentamiento es un elemento calefactor eléctrico utilizado en motores diésel para ayudar a encender el combustible durante el arranque en frío. Calienta la cámara de combustión para que el aire comprimido alcance condiciones adecuadas para una combustión fiable.
Las bujías modernas pueden seguir funcionando brevemente después del arranque para mejorar la combustión, reducir las emisiones en frío y ayudar al motor a funcionar suavemente mientras se calienta.
What does a glow plug do?
A glow plug heats the combustion chamber of a diesel engine before and during cold starting so that the injected diesel fuel can ignite more reliably.
Do diesel engines use glow plugs instead of spark plugs?
Diesel engines normally ignite fuel through compression rather than an electrical spark. Glow plugs therefore assist cold combustion but do not continuously ignite the fuel in the same way that spark plugs do in a petrol engine.
What are signs of faulty glow plugs?
Possible signs include difficult cold starting, rough running shortly after startup, increased cold-start smoke or a glow plug or engine warning light. Similar symptoms can have other causes, so proper diagnosis may be necessary.
155. Cilindro
Un cilindro es una cámara dentro de un motor de combustión interna alternativo en la que un pistón se desplaza hacia arriba y hacia abajo. El aire o una mezcla de aire y combustible se comprime dentro del cilindro, y la combustión genera presión que empuja el pistón y ayuda a producir potencia mecánica.
La mayoría de los motores de automóvil tienen varios cilindros dispuestos en configuraciones en línea, en V u opuestas horizontalmente. El volumen total desplazado por todos los cilindros se conoce como cilindrada del motor.
What happens inside an engine cylinder?
A piston moves inside the cylinder while the engine draws in air or an air-fuel mixture, compresses it and uses combustion to create pressure. This pressure acts on the piston and contributes to turning the crankshaft.
How many cylinders does a car engine have?
The number varies by engine design. Common passenger-car engines can have three, four, six or more cylinders, while some engines use different configurations according to their size and performance requirements.
What is cylinder capacity?
Cylinder capacity or engine displacement is the total swept volume of the engine's cylinders. It is commonly expressed in cubic centimetres (cm³) or litres.
156. Aceite del motor
El aceite del motor es un lubricante utilizado dentro de un motor de combustión interna para reducir la fricción y el desgaste entre componentes móviles. También ayuda a evacuar calor, mantener limpias las superficies internas y proteger los componentes contra la corrosión.
El nivel y estado del aceite deben comprobarse siguiendo las instrucciones del fabricante. Solo debe utilizarse aceite con la especificación y viscosidad correctas, y el aceite y filtro deben sustituirse en los intervalos de mantenimiento recomendados.
What does engine oil do?
Engine oil lubricates moving components, reduces friction and wear, helps carry away heat and keeps contaminants suspended so that they can be removed by the oil filter or during an oil change.
How do you check the engine oil level?
Depending on the vehicle, the level is checked with an oil dipstick or an electronic oil-level system. The vehicle manufacturer's instructions should be followed because the required procedure can vary between engines.
Can you use any engine oil?
No. Engine oils have different viscosity grades and technical specifications. Only oil meeting the requirements specified by the vehicle manufacturer should be used.
157. Líquido refrigerante
El líquido refrigerante es un fluido que circula por el sistema de refrigeración para eliminar el exceso de calor del motor u otros componentes. Normalmente contiene agua mezclada con anticongelante e inhibidores de corrosión para que el sistema funcione de forma segura en una amplia gama de temperaturas.
Su nivel debe comprobarse según las instrucciones del fabricante. Debe utilizarse la especificación correcta y el sistema de refrigeración solo debe abrirse cuando sea seguro hacerlo, ya que el refrigerante caliente puede estar sometido a presión.
What does engine coolant do?
Coolant absorbs heat from the engine and carries it to the radiator, where the heat can be released. It also helps protect the cooling system against freezing, corrosion and excessive temperatures.
Can you use any type of coolant?
No. Vehicles can require different coolant specifications and mixtures. Drivers should use coolant that meets the vehicle manufacturer's requirements and avoid mixing incompatible coolant types.
Should you open the coolant reservoir when the engine is hot?
No. A hot cooling system can be pressurised and opening it can release hot coolant or steam. Allow the system to cool and follow the vehicle manufacturer's instructions before opening the reservoir.
158. Mantenimiento
El mantenimiento es la inspección, servicio y reparación periódicos de un vehículo para mantenerlo seguro, fiable y en buen estado de funcionamiento. Incluye tareas como comprobar líquidos, neumáticos, frenos, luces y otros componentes y sustituir las piezas desgastadas cuando sea necesario.
Debe realizarse según el programa de servicio recomendado por el fabricante. Un mantenimiento regular puede ayudar a prevenir averías, reducir el desgaste, conservar los sistemas de seguridad e identificar defectos antes de que se vuelvan más graves.
Why is regular vehicle maintenance important?
Regular maintenance helps keep safety-critical and mechanical systems working correctly, reduces the risk of breakdowns and can identify worn or damaged components before they cause larger problems.
What does routine vehicle maintenance include?
It can include checking and replacing engine oil and filters, inspecting tyres and brakes, checking fluid levels, lights, suspension and other components, and performing other work specified by the vehicle manufacturer.
How often should a vehicle be serviced?
Service intervals depend on the vehicle, engine, mileage, age and operating conditions. Drivers should follow the maintenance schedule provided by the vehicle manufacturer.
159. Rueda de repuesto
Una rueda de repuesto es un neumático adicional, normalmente ya montado sobre una llanta, que se lleva en el vehículo para sustituir temporalmente una rueda dañada o pinchada. Un vehículo puede llevar una rueda de repuesto de tamaño completo, una rueda temporal compacta o un kit de reparación de neumáticos.
Una rueda temporal está destinada normalmente solo a uso de emergencia y a corto plazo. El conductor debe respetar las restricciones del fabricante sobre velocidad, distancia, presión e instalación y reparar o sustituir el neumático normal dañado lo antes posible.
What is a spare tyre?
A spare tyre is an additional tyre, normally mounted on a wheel, that can temporarily replace a punctured or damaged road wheel.
Is a spare tyre the same as a spare wheel?
In everyday use the terms are often used interchangeably. Technically, a spare wheel usually consists of both the wheel rim and the tyre already fitted to it.
What is a space-saver spare wheel?
A space-saver is a smaller and lighter temporary spare designed to take up less storage space. It normally has stricter speed and distance limitations than a normal road wheel.
Can you drive normally on a temporary spare wheel?
No. Temporary spare wheels are intended for emergency use. Follow the maximum speed, distance and other restrictions specified by the vehicle or tyre manufacturer.
Do all cars have a spare tyre?
No. Many modern cars instead use a tyre-repair kit, run-flat tyres or roadside-assistance arrangements.
Can a tyre-repair kit replace a spare wheel?
For some punctures, yes. A repair kit may temporarily seal a small puncture, but it may not work for severe tyre damage, sidewall damage or a damaged wheel rim.
Should you check the pressure of a spare tyre?
Yes. A spare tyre can lose pressure while stored for long periods. Check it periodically according to the manufacturer's recommended pressure.
Can any spare wheel be fitted to any car?
No. The wheel dimensions, bolt pattern, load capacity and other specifications must be compatible with the vehicle. Use only a spare approved or specified for the vehicle.
What should you do after fitting a spare wheel?
Drive cautiously, respect any temporary-wheel restrictions and have the damaged tyre repaired or replaced as soon as reasonably possible.
Is carrying a spare tyre compulsory?
This depends on the country and vehicle category. Some jurisdictions require particular breakdown equipment, while others allow vehicles to operate without a spare wheel.
160. Neumático pinchado
Un neumático pinchado es un neumático que ha perdido suficiente presión de aire como para dejar de soportar el vehículo o funcionar de forma segura. Puede deberse a una perforación, válvula dañada, llanta dañada, fallo del neumático o fuga lenta de aire.
Puede afectar gravemente a la dirección, frenado y estabilidad. El conductor debe reducir la velocidad suavemente, evitar maniobras o frenadas bruscas y detenerse en un lugar seguro lo antes posible, en lugar de continuar circulando con el neumático dañado.
What should you do if a tyre becomes flat while driving?
Keep control of the vehicle, reduce speed gradually and move to a safe stopping place. Avoid sudden braking or steering because the vehicle's handling may be significantly affected.
Can you continue driving on a flat tyre?
Normally no. Driving on a deflated tyre can damage the tyre and wheel and can make the vehicle difficult to control. Some run-flat tyres permit limited continued driving under specified conditions, so the manufacturer's instructions should be followed.
What can cause a flat tyre?
Common causes include punctures, damaged valves, cracked or damaged wheels, tyre sidewall damage and gradual air leakage. Regular tyre-pressure and condition checks can help identify some problems before complete pressure loss occurs.
161. Gato
Un gato es un dispositivo portátil de elevación utilizado para levantar una parte del vehículo del suelo, normalmente al cambiar una rueda. Puede ser mecánico, hidráulico o accionado eléctricamente.
Solo debe utilizarse en los puntos de elevación especificados por el fabricante y sobre una superficie firme y estable. Antes de levantar el vehículo debe aplicarse el freno de estacionamiento y asegurarse el vehículo contra cualquier movimiento.
What is a vehicle jack used for?
A jack is used to lift part of a vehicle so that a wheel can be removed or certain maintenance tasks can be performed.
Where should a jack be placed?
The jack should only be positioned at the lifting points specified by the vehicle manufacturer. Using an unsuitable location can damage the vehicle or cause it to become unstable.
Is it safe to work underneath a vehicle supported only by a jack?
No. A jack is primarily a lifting device and should not be relied upon as the sole support when working underneath a raised vehicle. Appropriate supporting equipment should be used for work beneath the vehicle.
162. Inspección del vehículo
Una inspección del vehículo es una comprobación oficial destinada a determinar si un vehículo es seguro, apto para circular y cumple los requisitos técnicos y medioambientales aplicables. Según el país y el tipo de vehículo, puede revisar frenos, neumáticos, dirección, suspensión, luces, emisiones, identificación y otros componentes relacionados con la seguridad. Las normas y periodicidad de las inspecciones varían entre países: algunos vehículos deben pasar inspecciones periódicas, mientras que otros también pueden requerirlas tras modificaciones importantes, un accidente, importación o cambio de propietario.
What is a vehicle inspection?
A vehicle inspection is an official examination of a vehicle to check whether it meets applicable safety, technical and environmental requirements.
What is checked during a vehicle inspection?
The inspection may include the brakes, tyres, steering, suspension, lights, vehicle identification and emissions. The exact inspection points depend on the country, vehicle type and type of inspection.
How often does a vehicle need to be inspected?
The inspection interval depends on the country and type of vehicle. Some countries require annual inspections, while others use longer intervals based on the vehicle's age, use or condition.
What happens if a vehicle fails the inspection?
A vehicle that does not meet the required standards may need to be repaired and presented for another inspection. Serious defects may restrict or prohibit the vehicle from being used until they are repaired.
Do all countries have the same vehicle inspection rules?
No. Vehicle inspection systems differ between countries, including which vehicles must be inspected, how often inspections are required and which technical standards are checked.
Do electric vehicles need a vehicle inspection?
In countries with periodic vehicle inspections, electric vehicles are generally also subject to inspection. Some inspection points differ because electric vehicles do not have a conventional combustion engine or exhaust-emission system.
163. Llave
Una llave es un dispositivo utilizado para desbloquear un vehículo y autorizar su funcionamiento. Las llaves tradicionales emplean una hoja mecánica, mientras que los vehículos modernos suelen utilizar transpondedores electrónicos, mandos a distancia o sistemas sin llave que se comunican electrónicamente con el vehículo.
Muchas llaves modernas funcionan junto con un inmovilizador que impide arrancar el motor o activar el sistema de propulsión si no se detecta una llave autorizada. Por ello, las llaves de sustitución o duplicadas pueden necesitar programación electrónica para el vehículo.
What does a modern car key do?
A modern car key can unlock and lock the vehicle and authorise the engine or electric propulsion system to start. It may use a mechanical blade, electronic transponder, remote-control functions or a keyless system.
What is a transponder key?
A transponder key contains an electronic identification device that communicates with the vehicle's immobiliser. If the correct code is not recognised, the vehicle normally prevents the engine or propulsion system from being started.
What should you do if you lose a vehicle key?
Use a spare key if available and arrange a replacement through an appropriate dealer, locksmith or vehicle specialist. Modern replacement keys often need to be programmed to the vehicle's electronic security system.
164. Salpicadero
El salpicadero es la zona situada delante del conductor que muestra información importante sobre el vehículo y proporciona acceso a controles e indicadores de advertencia. Suele incluir velocímetro, nivel de combustible o batería, testigos, indicadores e información sobre motor, frenos y sistemas de seguridad. Los vehículos modernos pueden utilizar una pantalla digital de instrumentos en lugar de indicadores tradicionales. El conductor debe conocer los principales símbolos y reaccionar adecuadamente cuando aparezca un testigo de advertencia.
What is a car dashboard?
The dashboard is the panel in front of the driver that displays vehicle information and contains controls, gauges and warning indicators.
What information is shown on the dashboard?
A dashboard may show the speed, fuel or battery level, engine information, warning lights, turn indicators and safety-system status. The exact display depends on the vehicle.
What do dashboard warning light colours mean?
Colours generally indicate the importance or function of a dashboard light. Red often indicates a serious warning, yellow or amber usually indicates caution, and green or blue commonly indicates that a system is active. Symbols and meanings can differ between vehicles, so consult the vehicle manual.
What should I do if a dashboard warning light comes on?
Identify the warning and follow the instructions in the vehicle manual. A red warning light may require you to stop safely as soon as possible, while other warnings may indicate that the vehicle should be checked or repaired.
What is the instrument cluster?
The instrument cluster is the part of the dashboard directly in front of the driver that contains the main gauges, displays and warning lights.
Can a dashboard be completely digital?
Yes. Many modern vehicles use a digital dashboard or digital instrument cluster that displays vehicle information on one or more electronic screens instead of traditional analogue gauges.
165. Limpiaparabrisas
Un limpiaparabrisas es un dispositivo que elimina lluvia, nieve, suciedad y humedad del parabrisas para mantener una visión clara de la carretera. La mayoría de los vehículos utiliza limpiaparabrisas eléctricos con escobillas de goma sustituibles y varias velocidades de funcionamiento, normalmente junto con un sistema lavaparabrisas. Las escobillas desgastadas o dañadas deben sustituirse cuando dejan marcas, saltan sobre el cristal o ya no limpian eficazmente.
What is a windscreen wiper?
A windscreen wiper is a device that moves across the windscreen to remove rain, snow, dirt and moisture so the driver can maintain a clear view of the road.
Why are windscreen wipers important?
Windscreen wipers help maintain clear visibility in bad weather and when the windscreen becomes dirty. Poor visibility can make it harder to detect traffic, pedestrians, signs and hazards.
When should windscreen wiper blades be replaced?
Wiper blades should be replaced when they are worn, cracked, damaged or no longer clean the windscreen effectively. Common signs include streaking, skipping, squeaking or areas of the windscreen remaining wet.
What is the windscreen washer system?
The windscreen washer system sprays cleaning fluid onto the windscreen so the wipers can remove dirt and improve visibility.
Can you drive with broken windscreen wipers?
Driving with defective windscreen wipers can be unsafe and may be illegal where functioning wipers are required. The driver must be able to maintain adequate visibility through the windscreen.
Do cars have a rear window wiper?
Many vehicles have a rear window wiper, especially hatchbacks, estate cars and SUVs. Whether one is fitted or legally required depends on the vehicle design and applicable regulations.
166. Puertas
Las puertas permiten acceder al vehículo y ayudan a proteger a los ocupantes mientras está en movimiento. Deben abrir y cerrar correctamente, permanecer firmemente cerradas durante la conducción y disponer de bisagras, cierres y mecanismos de bloqueo en buen estado. Una puerta dañada o suelta puede crear un grave riesgo de seguridad, especialmente si puede abrirse de forma inesperada o no puede cerrarse correctamente.
Why are vehicle doors important for safety?
Vehicle doors help protect occupants and keep them safely inside the vehicle. They should close securely and must not open unexpectedly while driving.
What parts of a vehicle door should work correctly?
The door, hinges, catches, locking mechanism and surrounding structure should be secure and in good condition so the door can open and close properly.
Can you drive with a door that does not close properly?
A door that cannot remain securely closed can be dangerous and may make the vehicle unroadworthy. It should be repaired before the vehicle is used.
Are sliding doors checked differently from normal doors?
The basic requirement is the same: the door must open and close correctly and remain securely closed. The exact inspection method can depend on the type of door and vehicle.
Can damaged door hinges be dangerous?
Yes. Damaged, loose or badly worn hinges can prevent a door from closing correctly or allow it to move unexpectedly.
167. Guantera
La guantera es un compartimento de almacenamiento integrado en el salpicadero delante del asiento del acompañante. Se utiliza habitualmente para guardar documentos del vehículo, el manual del propietario y otros objetos pequeños al alcance de la mano. Debe mantenerse cerrada durante la conducción para que no moleste a los pasajeros ni permita que objetos sueltos caigan al interior del vehículo. Conviene evitar guardar objetos de valor o elementos que puedan dañarse por las altas temperaturas que pueden alcanzarse dentro de un vehículo estacionado.
What is a glovebox?
A glovebox is a storage compartment in the dashboard, usually located in front of the passenger seat. It is also called a glove compartment.
Why is it called a glovebox?
The name comes from the early use of the compartment for storing driving gloves. Today it is commonly used for vehicle documents and other small items.
What can you keep in a glovebox?
A glovebox is commonly used for vehicle documents, the owner’s manual and small useful items. What should be kept in the vehicle depends on local legal requirements and personal preference.
Should the glovebox be closed while driving?
Yes. Keeping the glovebox properly closed while driving prevents it from obstructing the passenger area and helps stop loose objects from falling out.
Should valuables be kept in the glovebox?
It is generally better not to leave valuable or sensitive items in an unattended vehicle, as a glovebox does not provide strong protection against theft.
Can a glovebox become hot?
Yes. The interior of a parked vehicle can become very hot, and the glovebox can also heat up. Avoid storing heat-sensitive or potentially dangerous items there.
168. Visibilidad
La visibilidad es la capacidad del conductor para ver con claridad la carretera, otros usuarios y posibles peligros, al tiempo que hace visible el vehículo para los demás. Puede reducirse por oscuridad, niebla, lluvia, nieve, cristales sucios o empañados, deslumbramiento y objetos que obstruyan el campo de visión. El conductor debe mantener limpios los cristales, espejos y luces, retirar cualquier elemento que limite su visión y utilizar el alumbrado adecuado cuando la visibilidad disminuya.
What does visibility mean when driving?
Visibility describes how clearly a driver can see the road, traffic and hazards and how easily other road users can see the vehicle.
What can reduce visibility while driving?
Visibility can be reduced by darkness, fog, rain, snow, glare, dirty or misted windows and objects that obstruct the driver’s view.
How can you improve visibility while driving?
Keep the windscreen, windows, mirrors and lights clean, remove condensation or ice before driving and use the appropriate lights when conditions require them.
Can objects inside a vehicle obstruct visibility?
Yes. Objects placed on the dashboard, windscreen or elsewhere around the driver can block part of the field of vision and make it harder to detect road users or hazards.
What should you do when visibility is poor?
Reduce your speed, increase your following distance and use the appropriate lights. Make sure you can see far enough ahead to react safely to traffic and obstacles.
Why are mirrors important for visibility?
Mirrors extend the driver’s view to the rear and sides of the vehicle. They should be clean and correctly adjusted, although drivers must still check blind spots where necessary.
169. Lluvia
La lluvia puede reducir la visibilidad, la adherencia y el control del vehículo, además de aumentar la distancia de frenado. El agua sobre la carretera también puede provocar aquaplaning, cuando los neumáticos pierden contacto con el pavimento. El conductor debe reducir la velocidad, aumentar la distancia de seguimiento, evitar maniobras o frenadas bruscas y utilizar las luces adecuadas cuando disminuya la visibilidad. Se necesita especial precaución durante lluvias intensas y cuando se acumula agua en las rodadas o en carreteras con mal drenaje.
How does rain affect driving?
Rain can reduce visibility and tyre grip, increase stopping distances and make it more difficult to control the vehicle safely.
What is aquaplaning?
Aquaplaning occurs when a layer of water builds up between the tyres and the road, causing the tyres to lose contact with the road surface and reducing steering and braking control.
How should you drive in heavy rain?
Reduce speed, increase your following distance and use smooth steering, acceleration and braking. Use the appropriate lights and be prepared for reduced visibility and standing water.
Why should you increase the following distance in rain?
Wet roads can increase the distance needed to stop. A larger following distance gives you more time and space to react safely.
What should you do if the vehicle starts aquaplaning?
Remain calm, ease off the accelerator and avoid sudden braking or steering. Make smooth corrections until the tyres regain contact with the road.
Should you use headlights in rain?
Lighting requirements vary between countries. Drivers should use the lights required by local traffic rules whenever rain or other conditions reduce visibility.
170. Niebla
La niebla puede reducir enormemente la visibilidad y dificultar la estimación de la velocidad, distancia y posición de otros usuarios. El conductor debe reducir la velocidad, aumentar la distancia de seguimiento y utilizar las luces adecuadas sin deslumbrar a los demás. No conviene depender únicamente del vehículo que circula delante como referencia, y hay que estar preparado para cambios repentinos de visibilidad. Cuando la niebla es muy densa, detenerse en un lugar seguro puede ser la mejor opción.
Why is fog dangerous when driving?
Fog can greatly reduce visibility and make it harder to judge speed, distance and the movement of other road users.
How should you drive in fog?
Reduce speed, increase your following distance and use the appropriate lights. Drive so that you can stop safely within the distance you can clearly see.
Should you use high-beam headlights in fog?
Usually not. High beams can reflect from the water droplets in fog and make visibility worse. Use the lighting permitted and recommended under local traffic rules.
When should fog lights be used?
Fog lights are intended for conditions where fog or similar weather significantly reduces visibility. The exact rules for front and rear fog lights vary between countries.
Should you follow the lights of the vehicle ahead in fog?
No. You should maintain your own safe speed and following distance. Following another vehicle too closely can be dangerous because visibility and stopping distance remain limited.
What should you do if fog becomes extremely dense?
If visibility becomes too poor to continue safely, slow down and consider stopping at a safe place away from moving traffic until conditions improve.
171. Granizo
El granizo puede reducir la visibilidad, hacer que la carretera sea resbaladiza y crear condiciones peligrosas de forma repentina. Los granizos pueden acumularse sobre el pavimento y reducir la adherencia de forma similar al hielo o material suelto, mientras que los de mayor tamaño también pueden dañar el parabrisas y la carrocería. El conductor debe reducir la velocidad, aumentar la distancia de seguimiento, evitar maniobras o frenadas bruscas y, si las condiciones se vuelven severas, considerar detenerse en un lugar seguro hasta que pase la granizada.
Why is hail dangerous when driving?
Hail can reduce visibility and tyre grip, make the road slippery and distract drivers because of the sudden noise and impact of hailstones.
How should you drive during a hailstorm?
Reduce speed, increase your following distance and use smooth steering and braking. If the hail becomes severe or visibility is very poor, consider stopping at a safe place away from moving traffic.
Can hail make a road slippery?
Yes. Hailstones can collect on the road and create a slippery surface with reduced tyre grip, particularly when mixed with rain or melting ice.
Can hail damage a vehicle?
Yes. Large hailstones can damage windscreens, windows, mirrors and vehicle bodywork. Severe hail can also reduce visibility if glass becomes cracked or damaged.
Should you use headlights during hail?
Use the lights required by local traffic rules when hail or other weather reduces visibility. Lighting requirements vary between countries.
Is it safer to stop during severe hail?
If visibility or road conditions become too dangerous, it may be safer to stop at a suitable place away from moving traffic and continue when conditions improve.
172. Luz solar
La luz solar puede reducir la visibilidad cuando el sol está bajo o cuando una luz intensa se refleja en carreteras mojadas, nieve, edificios u otros vehículos. El deslumbramiento puede dificultar ver semáforos, señales, peatones y otros usuarios. El conductor debe reducir la velocidad cuando sea necesario, mantener limpio el parabrisas, utilizar el parasol o gafas de sol adecuadas y dejar más espacio para reaccionar ante peligros que puedan quedar temporalmente ocultos por el resplandor.
Why can sunlight be dangerous when driving?
Bright or low sunlight can cause glare and temporarily reduce visibility, making traffic lights, signs, pedestrians and other road users more difficult to see.
When is sun glare most likely to cause problems?
Glare is often strongest when the sun is low in the sky, particularly around sunrise and sunset, and when sunlight reflects from wet roads, snow, glass or other bright surfaces.
What should you do when sunlight makes it difficult to see?
Reduce speed and increase your following distance so you have more time to react. Use the sun visor where helpful and avoid continuing at a speed that is too high for the available visibility.
Can a dirty windscreen make sun glare worse?
Yes. Dirt, grease, dust and streaks on the glass can scatter bright sunlight and make glare much worse. Keep the windscreen clean inside and outside.
Can sunglasses help while driving in bright sunlight?
Suitable sunglasses can reduce glare and improve visual comfort in bright conditions. They should not be so dark that they significantly reduce visibility, especially when entering tunnels or shaded areas.
Does a sun visor improve visibility?
Yes. A correctly positioned sun visor can block direct sunlight without unnecessarily obstructing the driver’s view of the road.
173. Gafas de sol
Las gafas de sol pueden reducir el deslumbramiento y mejorar el confort visual al conducir con mucha luz, especialmente cuando el sol está bajo o se refleja en carreteras mojadas, nieve u otras superficies. Deben elegirse lentes que permitan seguir viendo claramente semáforos, señales y otros usuarios. Las lentes muy oscuras pueden reducir la visibilidad en túneles, de noche o con cambios de iluminación, por lo que deben retirarse cuando dificulten ver la carretera con seguridad.
Can sunglasses help when driving?
Yes. Sunglasses can reduce glare and improve visual comfort in bright sunlight, making it easier to see the road and surrounding traffic.
When are sunglasses most useful while driving?
They are particularly useful when the sun is low in the sky or when bright light reflects from wet roads, snow, glass or other surfaces.
Are very dark sunglasses suitable for driving?
Very dark lenses can reduce the amount of light reaching the eyes and may make it difficult to see in tunnels, shade, poor weather or at night. Sunglasses should not interfere with safe visibility.
Can you wear sunglasses at night?
Sunglasses generally reduce available light and can therefore make it harder to see at night. They should not be worn when they significantly reduce visibility.
Are polarised sunglasses useful for driving?
Polarised lenses can reduce reflections from roads and other flat surfaces, but they may make some digital displays or screens harder to read. Drivers should make sure all essential instruments remain clearly visible.
Should sunglasses be removed when entering a tunnel?
If the lenses make the darker environment difficult to see, remove the sunglasses when it is safe to do so. Drivers should always maintain adequate visibility as lighting conditions change.
174. Sal
La sal se utiliza habitualmente para deshelar y prevenir la formación de hielo en las carreteras durante el invierno. Reduce el punto de congelación del agua, ayudando a impedir que se forme hielo o a derretir nieve y hielo existentes. Las autoridades pueden esparcir sal seca, sal húmeda o salmuera antes o durante condiciones de congelación. Mejora la seguridad, pero el conductor debe seguir reduciendo la velocidad y adaptándose a superficies resbaladizas, ya que las carreteras tratadas pueden seguir siendo peligrosas durante nevadas intensas, lluvia engelante o temperaturas muy bajas.
Why is salt used on roads in winter?
Salt helps lower the freezing point of water, making it harder for ice to form and helping existing snow or ice melt.
What is the difference between deicing and anti-icing?
Anti-icing means treating the road before ice forms, while deicing means applying salt or another treatment after snow or ice is already present.
What is road brine?
Brine is a solution of salt and water that can be sprayed onto roads before freezing conditions occur. It helps the salt begin working quickly and can reduce ice formation.
Does salt make an icy road completely safe?
No. Salt can improve grip by reducing snow and ice, but treated roads can still be slippery. Drivers should continue to reduce speed and increase their following distance.
Does road salt work in every temperature?
No. The effectiveness of salt decreases as temperatures become very low. Road authorities may use different treatments or methods depending on the weather and road conditions.
Can road salt damage a vehicle?
Repeated exposure to road salt can contribute to corrosion of metal parts, particularly underneath the vehicle. Washing accumulated salt from the vehicle can help reduce this effect.
175. Aire acondicionado
El aire acondicionado ayuda a controlar la temperatura y humedad dentro del vehículo y puede mejorar el confort y la visibilidad. En tiempo caluroso enfría el habitáculo, mientras que en condiciones húmedas ayuda a eliminar humedad del aire y desempañar los cristales con mayor rapidez. Debe utilizarse de forma que mantenga una temperatura confortable sin crear diferencias excesivas, y el sistema debe recibir mantenimiento para que siga funcionando eficazmente.
What does air conditioning do in a car?
Air conditioning cools and dehumidifies the air inside the vehicle, helping improve comfort and reduce moisture on the windows.
Can air conditioning help demist the windscreen?
Yes. Because air conditioning removes moisture from the air, it can help clear condensation from the windscreen and windows more quickly.
Should air conditioning be used in winter?
Yes. Air conditioning can still be useful in winter because it reduces humidity inside the vehicle and can help demist the windows.
Does air conditioning increase fuel or energy consumption?
Yes. Operating the air-conditioning system requires energy and can increase fuel or electricity consumption, although the effect depends on the vehicle, system and conditions.
Should a car's air conditioning be maintained?
Yes. Regular use and maintenance can help keep the system effective. A poorly functioning system may cool less efficiently or fail to remove moisture properly.
Can you drive without air conditioning?
Yes, in many vehicles and countries air conditioning itself is not required. However, the driver must still maintain adequate visibility and safe conditions inside the vehicle.