Have you prepped your vehicle for winter? Taking steps to weatherize your car can help keep you and other drivers safe while traveling. Here are a few things you can check to ensure your automobile is running at the top of its’ game.
Tire Tread/Pressure
Take a look at your tires to see if they need replacing. You can easily check the tread of your tire by doing the ‘penny test’. Stick a penny head first into your tire tread, if Lincoln’s head is partially covered by the tread, you’re okay. If you can see the top of Lincoln’s head, it means your treads are worn down and it’s time for new tires. Proper tire treads help your vehicle grip the road better. You’re less likely to skid and slide during inclement weather.
Another thing you must check regularly is your tire pressure. When you drive around with uneven tire pressure, it increases the wear and tear on your tires. It also decreases your gas mileage. Check your vehicle weekly to ensure your tires are filled appropriately.
Snow Tires
If you live in a location that experiences a lot of snow each year, consider investing in snow tires. An article written by Steven John for businessinsider.com states, “Tires focused on strong winter-season traction help keep you safe by providing better control, shorter stopping distances, more traction to get up that icy incline or power through snow, chew through slushy conditions, or grip cold wet roads.” It also goes on to say, “A dedicated winter tire is the best when winter weather is at its worst.”
Check Battery
Your battery is another component of your vehicle that is easily depleted by cold weather. Have a professional check both the fluid and cables to ensure it’s in good shape. If your battery is old, consider purchasing a second one and storing in your trunk in case of an emergency.
Maintain Proper Fluid Levels
Getting your car serviced and fluid levels checked before winter is another great idea. This will help keep your vehicle running at peak performance. Low temperatures have a tendency to deplete your brake fluids and freeze your windshield wiper fluid. To prevent this from happening, replace ordinary fluid with cold weather products that are made to stay liquid despite the temperature.
New Wipers
New windshield wiper blades are an inexpensive way to prepare your vehicle for winter. You can purchase decent blades for under $20 and easily install them yourself. The above mentioned article reiterates this point by saying, “You need to have your wiper blades replaced before winter hits. Once snow starts falling and there’s ice on the glass, blades get destroyed fast, so start with fresh wipers.”
When you properly prepare your car for winter weather, you’re bolstering the reliability, longevity and safety of it. Take good care of your automobile and it will take good care of you.
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