Driving in the winter offers a unique set of challenges. As the fall season comes to an end and the first hint of snowflakes are in the air, you need to take the opportunity to make sure your vehicle is ready for winter driving by considering the following tips.
Check Your Tires
Having the right tires on your vehicle can give you a huge advantage when you’re dealing with snowy or icy roads. If you have all-season tires on your vehicle, check the pressure in each tire to make sure it’s at the level recommended in your vehicle’s manual. You should also take a moment to check the tread on your tires. Simply stick a penny in the tire’s tread with Lincoln’s head pointing down. If you can see all of his head, the tread is too low and you need to replace the tire.
Change Your Windshield Washer Fluid
If you try to use summer blend windshield washer fluid during the winter, you might end up making an even bigger mess on your windshield since it can freeze as soon as it hits. Instead, switch to a winter blend windshield washer fluid at the end of fall. This fluid can stand up to the freezing temperatures of winter and even comes with a special de-icer ingredient that helps loosen snow and ice from your windshield.
Replace Your Wiper Blades
Along with switching your windshield washer fluid, you should also consider changing your wiper blades so you start the winter with a fresh set. If your car sits outside in the sun during summer, the heat can break down the rubber on the blades. The last thing you want when you’re driving through snow is a set of wipers that can’t clear the windshield. Look for winter wiper blades that have a protective rubber shell that helps the blade stay clean of ice and snow.
Check Your Battery
Cold mornings are hard on your battery, and having one that’s close to its expiration date can leave you stranded if it doesn’t want to start when the temperature dips below freezing. Only professional equipment can tell you if your battery is weak, but you can give it a visual inspection and look for cracks or breaks in the battery cables or loose terminals. While you’re inspecting the battery, check its manufacture date. If it’s close to four years old, it’s time to consider replacing it with a new one.
Pack an Emergency Car Kit
The last step you want to take to prepare your vehicle for winter is to pack an emergency car kit. This should include a first aid kit, blanket, gloves, hat, small shovel, kitty litter or sand for traction, road flares, flashlight, ice scraper, and snacks. You can put everything in a large plastic container and keep it in your trunk in case you need it when you’re on the road.
Pick the right vehicle
You might think that All Wheel Drive will help in winter weather – and you’re right! All Wheel Drive can also help you navigate roads with snow after the plow went through. Remember, All Wheel Drive is an assistant, and should be used along with your safe, responsible driving and common sense. Shop for all wheel drive vehicles here.
Make sure your vehicle is ready to take on snowy roads by following these steps to prepare it for winter driving.
