January 6, 2022
Consistent seasonal maintenance of your vehicle extends its lifespan and ensures your safety. As we transition to the winter months, we must prepare our vehicles for the upcoming season. Contact your local mechanic for your winter car preparation.
In an emergency, you’ll need the basics. As part of your winter car preparation, you’ll need extra supplies for the cold weather. In addition to water, non-perishable snacks, batteries, a radio, a first-aid kit, and a flashlight, store an ice scraper, snow brush, jumper cables, gas can and a spare tire in the trunk of your vehicle. Your winter emergency kit should also include gloves, boots, blankets, flares, a small shovel, cat litter or gravel, and a flashlight.
The tires you use during the warm months are not the same tires you should use during the cold, snowy season. Visit a local tire shop to purchase winter tires — they are designed to grip snow and ice and provide your car with additional traction, unlike standard tires. While your chances of sliding on ice are still likely, specialized winter tires can limit skidding.
Before the winter arrives, check your tire pressure. The lower the temperature is, the lower your tire’s pressure gets. If your tire pressure is low, you could be at risk for an accident. Professionals recommend inflating your tires 3-5 psi above the recommended pressures to account for cold weather.
Visit a professional to check your car battery. Your mechanic will inspect your battery for any corrosion and may recommend a replacement. To protect and maintain your car battery in the winter months, always remember to shut off your interior lights and headlights, clean your battery terminals ask your local mechanic about a battery blanket.
Continue regular maintenance of your vehicle by changing your oil every 3,000 miles, refilling coolant, brake and transmission fluid and checking your tires. Replace old wiper blades, replace air filters and always keep your tank approximately ¾ full throughout the season.
Have you prepared your home for the winter months? Read our winter home checklist for more information.
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