For most of the country winter is arriving and there is no better time than now to get your vehicle ready. Whether you live in a mild climate like Southern California or a more severe climate like Northern Michigan, it is important to make sure your vehicle is ready to take on the elements of winter. Here are a few tips to help get your vehicle ready:
1. Check your windshield wipers. It is important to make sure your wipers are in good working order. After sitting on your vehicle all summer, the heat has probably damaged the rubber on your blade, making it less than efficient. Depending on your climate zone, it is recommended to change your wiper blades every 3 – 6 months. You really don’t want to be stuck in a down pour with cracked, broken or worn-out blades.
2.Check your fluids. Before heading out into the cold, check that your vehicle’s fluids are filled to their appropriate levels. You will want to check your transmission, brake, power steering, and windshield washer fluids and coolants. If you experience temperatures that fall below freezing, you will need to buy a washer fluid that does not freeze, or even a de-icer for your windshield. In some cases you may need to buy an additive for your gas which prevents it from freezing.
3. Time for a tune-up. If it has been a while since you have visited a mechanic, this would be a great time to do it. A mechanic can check your brake system to make sure it is functioning properly. Also, if your vehicle is equipped with 4-wheel drive, you should have it serviced every year – before you need it! A tune-up can keep your car running longer and save you money in the long-run by detecting potential issue early on.
4. Check your tires. Properly operating tires are very important in general. However, in the winter time when the roads are in less than desirable condition, it is important to make sure your tires are gripping the road as they should. You should check the wear of your tires and make sure there is an adequate amount of tread on them. You can use the “penny” method to check your tire’s tread, or simply take your vehicle into any tire shop. A tire shop can also check the way in which your tires are wearing, this could indicate if an alignment is needed. If you live where it snows, you have a few options for winter tires. A set of snow tires or studded tires are specifically designed for roads covered in snow and ice. You can also look into having your tires siped or buying a set of siped tires. Just remember, most tires designed for travel in snow and ice should not be used in the warmer months.
5. Make a winter emergency kit. You should have an emergency kit in your vehicle at all times. Your kit can include things like water, a flashlight, blankets, batteries, a first-aid kit, matches and/or snacks. When winter comes around, it is a good idea to add some items to your kit. Add kitty litter or sand for tire traction in case you get stuck. Make sure you have an ice-scraper and some de-icer (you can make a homemade de-icer using vinegar and water). Also, an extra jacket, gloves, beanie, wool socks and hand warmers would all be a good items to add to your winter emergency kit.
Being proactive and doing preventative maintenance on your vehicle is not only for the benefit of your car, but also for your safety. Many accidents and roadside breakdowns can be prevented by just taking a little extra time and care with your vehicle.