Winter in Bishkek is often mild, but ice, night frosts and passes such as Too-Ashuu or Dolon test both car and driver. It is best to finish preparing before the first snow — in October or November — because tyre shops get busy afterwards.
1. Winter tyres
When the temperature stays below +7 °C, summer tyre rubber hardens and grips the road poorly. Winter tyres come in two types:
- Studded — best on ice and mountain roads, but noisy on dry asphalt.
- Studless (friction) — comfortable and quiet in the city, but weaker on clear ice.
Winter tyres need a tread depth of at least 4 mm. Change all four wheels to the same type.
2. Antifreeze
Check the freezing point of the coolant — it should be below the lowest temperature in your region. If it looks cloudy or has sediment, replace it.
3. Battery
Battery capacity drops sharply in the cold. If it is more than 4–5 years old or the car was already slow to start in summer, have it tested. Clean the terminals.
4. Engine oil
Use an oil with a viscosity suited to winter (for example 5W- or 0W-; see your car’s manual for exact requirements). If a change is due soon, do it before winter.
5. Screenwash
Replace summer water in the washer reservoir with a non-freezing fluid. Frozen water can damage the reservoir and the pump.
6. Wipers and lights
Replace wiper blades with worn rubber. Check all the lights — winter days are short.
7. Brakes
On slippery roads the condition of the brakes matters most. Have the pads and brake fluid checked.
8. Snow chains for mountain passes
If you are crossing Too-Ashuu or Dolon or driving to Issyk-Kul, take snow chains and practise fitting them at home. Before the trip, check official updates on road conditions and whether the pass is open.
9. A winter kit for the car
- A snow brush and ice scraper.
- A small shovel.
- Jump leads and a tow rope.
- A warm blanket, gloves and a thermos.
- A phone charger and power bank.
- A torch and a warning triangle.
- A small bag of sand or de-icing grit.
Driving in winter
- Double your following distance.
- Avoid sudden braking and sharp turns.
- Clear all windows completely before setting off.
In the catalogue: tyres and wheels, oils and car care, car accessories, car tools.