Getting Your Car Ready for Winter
As hard as winter is on us, it’s even harder on our cars. Freezing temperatures, snow and ice can cause all sorts of emergencies, from mechanical failures to car accidents. Being aware of the road safety concerns, as well as how to manage them is key to prevention. Learn how to winterize your vehicle the right way so that you, your family, and your car stay safe on the road this winter!
Check Fluid Levels
You should be monitoring fluid levels year-round, but it’s doubly important going into winter. Look at not only engine oil and antifreeze, but also transmission fluid, brake fluid and power steering fluid.
Make sure that the antifreeze is mixed at the right ratio. For most vehicles, this is a 60-percent coolant to 40-percent water mixture. Double check your owner’s manual to make sure you have the right mixture.
Schedule an oil change, and make sure your car is switched over to the proper oil for winter. You’ll most likely want to use a lower viscosity oil than what is typically used during the summer months.
Get Under the Hood
There are several parts of the car that you’ll want to check before the cold weather arrives, including:
- Electrical components such as ignition, wiring, the distributor and the battery.
- Spark plugs, belts and hoses.
- Make sure you have aggressive tires with plenty of tread.
- Have your brakes checked to see if the pads or rotors need to be replaced.
- Check filters, including the air, emissions and fuel filters.
Making sure that everything is in good working order will prevent wintertime breakdowns, extend the life of your car and help you prevent an accident.
Dealing with Ice
Most people think of ice as an annoyance while they’re chipping it away from their windshield. However, ice can cause a couple of dangerous problems. On a snowy day, ice can build up on your windshield as you drive, and it can also clog your windshield wipers, making them ineffective. Consider using a wiper fluid rated for subzero temperatures to clear your windshield, and switch to winter windshield wipers with protective coverings that prevent ice jams.
Emergency Kit
You should also prepare an emergency kit should the worst happen and you become stuck or stranded. Carry jumper cables and a small toolkit to deal with any mechanical problems that crop up. You’ll also want tire chains and salt, sand or kitty litter if you get stuck.
When you’re stranded, you should have:
- Road flares
- Flashlight
- First aid kit
- Blankets
- Extra clothes, hats and gloves
- Granola bars or other non-perishables
- A full tank of gas
If you have these things, you’ll be able to make the best of a bad situation until help arrives.
Car safety in the winter takes a little more work. Getting through the winter safely is all about preparedness, particularly when it comes to your vehicle. Start preparations in the fall, and you’ll be able to protect yourself and your car once the snow arrives.
