Get Your Car Ready for Winter
If you live in states that don’t really experience winters or cold weather than this read is not for you. Those of us who know what winter really is, know that you not only get your wardrobe and home ready, but your vehicle needs to be ready as well. today.com has a few tips that can be life-saving.
Tips to Remember
Getting the right kind of oil change can keep it running with no problems during the cold season. Oil tends to thicken as it gets colder, and if it’s too thick, it won’t do the best job of keeping your engine lubricated. Refer to your owner’s manual about which oil to use.
I’m guilty of this, but replacing your windshield wiper blades, so they are working properly can save your life. You need to be able to see during a snowstorm. Remember to fill up your windshield washer reservoir with windshield washer fluid. Using plain water isn’t a good idea during this time, water freezes. Also, make sure your car’s heater and defroster are working properly so you can keep the windshield nice and clear. Oh yeah, have the correct mixture of antifreeze and water inside your radiator.
Check your battery to make sure posts and connections are corrosion-free and that your battery has all the water it needs. Have it checked or change it if it’s more than three years old by a certified repair shop.
Check your tire pressure and maybe think about switching to snow tires if you need to. The air pressure in your tires has likely dropped as the weather has gotten colder, so it’s important to see where things stand now. If you do decide, investing in winter tires and using them over the next few months instead of your usual all-season tires can make your drive easier. If you have four wheel drive, check the status of the system. Be sure that the system engages and disengages easily, and that all drivers in your household know how and when to activate the system.
Prepare an emergency kit that consists of blankets, a small shovel, ice scraper, tool kit, jumper cables… Keep it in the truck during the winter and change it out for the next season.
Know what to do if you get stranded. Don’t wander away from your car unless you’re completely sure about where you are and how far away help is. Use flares, layer yourself with extra clothes or a blanket. If you can, run your heater for a bit. Leave a window cracked to prevent the vehicle becoming sealed from the weather.
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