While prepping your car for winter may seem easy, knowing what to focus on can sometimes be a mystery. From making sure your engine is in good condition to prepping your tires for snow and ice, there are a few specifics you need to focus on. Here are some items for you to keep in mind when preparing for cold weather.
Windshield
In between the months of the scorching summer sun and the freezing snow and ice, your windshield takes a beating. Particularly, in the winter, you need to make sure your windshield can withstand whatever Mother Nature throws at you. Replace your wiper blades with ones that can clear rain and snow. In addition, check for any cracks in your windshield that could buckle under the heavy weight of piled-up snow.
Check Your Tires
Depending on where you live and how much snow you get, you might want to opt for snow tires. This is especially important if you reside in an area known for heavy snowfall. It’s never a good idea to attempt driving on tires that lack tread. Newer tires offer deeper tread patterns that not only provide a smoother ride when the roads are dry but also make your tires more effective for driving through snow. You may also want to consider adding tire chains if you live somewhere that gets a lot of snow and ice. You can always have them removed when winter is over.
Energize Your Battery
With temperatures often falling below freezing, it’s not uncommon for car batteries to die. In fact, even new car batteries can lose their charge more quickly in extreme cold. Make a point of checking how much of a charge your battery has on a regular basis. Your local mechanic can do this in less than five minutes. If found to be too low, they can charge it, ensuring you’re not left stranded.
Check the Undercarriage
You also need to look under your car and make sure that everything is intact. Low-lying mufflers and exhaust systems are prone to falling off when trying to drive over mounds of snow. If you’re car-savvy, have a look at the undercarriage, and look for any panels that need tightening as well.
Whether you’re knee-deep in snow already or still waiting for the first flake to fall, it’s never too early or late to prepare your car for winter. While it’s usually better to have seasonal maintenance performed before the winter begins, you should take the necessary precautions at any time. By doing this, you can ensure your safety while driving in those harsh, winter conditions.
For more safe driving tips, read on here!