How To Prepare Your Car For Winter

Winter time is not the time for you to get stranded because of a problem with your vehicle. There are some things you need to do in order to prepare your car for the cold winter months.

How to Prepare Your Car For Winter

Car battery

Batteries seem to be the number one problem with car breakdowns in winter than any other time of year. If you have not used your car for a good amount of time, you may need to charge your battery before you start to use it again. You also want to test your battery, even with everyday use, to ensure that it is fully charged and ready for winter.

Coolant

Check your coolant levels and ensure they are between the maximum and minimum markings. You also want to be sure that there is the proper amount of anti-freeze. Anti-freeze is not something that is expensive but can save your car’s engine from freezing.

Tires

You want to ensure that your car’s tires have enough tread. Inspect your tires and look for signs of damage such as bulges or splits. You also want to check the tire pressure as well since properly inflated tires are crucial in the winter months so that you will have better traction when conditions are snowy and wet.

Oil

When the temperatures get colder outside, the engines’ internal temperature will be affected. You want to be sure that you are using the correct oil for the weather conditions. For instance, if you live in a very cold area, you want to use oil that is thinner than what you normally use.

Emergency kit

It is important that you have an emergency kit in your vehicle in the winter in case you are stuck or stranded somewhere. Of course, a spare tire is a must-have essential but there are a few other items you want to have stowed away in your trunk as well. These items include a flashlight, first aid kit, windshield washer fluid, coolant and an ice scraper. You also want to have some road flares handy in case you break down on the highway. Also, carry a small bag of cat litter in case you get stuck in the snow. In addition, store a radio with working batteries, gloves, warm clothes and a blanket in your trunk as well.

Investigate noises

It is important to promptly investigate any concerning noises. Don`t wait until you are stranded in the snow.