How To Prepare Your Car For Winter
Tips From Your Local Colorado Springs Towing Company
As many parts of Colorado are already experiencing heavy amounts of snow, and Colorado Springs even recently had a dusting, it’s important to make sure that your car is prepared for winter. Rain, sleet and snow invite a variety of challenges for you to face, and preparing your vehicle for the winter is necessary. Before facing any on-the-road challenges, there are some things you can do now to make sure your car is prepared for winter.
Keep a winter supply box in your car
To prepare your car and yourself for any winter road concerns, keep a box in your trunk that’s filled with supplies you’ll need for a car issue on the road during the winter. A flashlight, road flares, blankets, gloves, warm clothes for the driver, and an extra ice scraper are things you should think about keeping in your car.
Check antifreeze and coolant levels
To keep your engine from freezing in the winter months, antifreeze is the solution. Without adequate amounts of this, you’ll wish you had it if you’re stranded on the road. Almost every auto supply store has a kit to help you check your coolant levels, too.
Check your tire pressure
Good tires are key to safely staying on the road. Ensure your tires are in good shape by checking the pressure (a simple gauge sold at any auto supply store). Be sure to check the owner’s manual for their best pressure level.
Use winter windshield wiper fluid
Not all windshield wiper fluid is the same. Fluid that you use in the spring or summer may freeze quickly when it comes in contact with your windshield. With winter coming, it might be time to switch the fluid.
Replace your wipers, if needed
If you’re driving in a blinding storm, these work best when they’re new. Also, be sure to fill your windshield washer fluid reservoir with actual windshield washer fluid—if you put water in there, it may freeze.
Maintain the scheduled service for your car
Sometimes, this can involve changing the oil. A thinner viscosity, or thickness, will prevent the oil from freezing while acting as a a lubricant for your engine. As the climate changes, so should your oil.
Maybe switch to snow tires
If you live in a hilly place that gets lots of snow, or live in the city and drive up to the mountains pretty regularly, think about investing in snow tires. Do a cost comparison by asking about each of the fees that are required when you purchase them.
Know what to do if you get stranded
Don’t leave you car unless you’re positive that you can walk to get help. Placing two lighted flares at both ends of your car will keep other drivers alert when they pass your car. This is where your stash of a blanket and extra clothes will come in handy, and you’ll stay warmer than if you didn’t have them.
To prevent damage to your car, and to keep YOU safe, complete theses tasks to be prepared for the colder weather. Even though modern vehicles are designed to handle inclement weather, you should still follow these basic steps. Shorter and colder days are a main concern for your car—these might be your best chance to be prepared for winter driving challenges.
