Cold weather is quickly approaching and that means it's time to winterize your car. But what does that mean exactly, winterize? Fortunately, SafeAuto® president Jon Diamond took the time to define it through a series of tips that will keep your vehicle running at its best when the conditions are at their worst.
- CHECK THE BLADES - Freezing conditions can cause windshield wiper blades to crack, thus diminishing their ability to function properly. Replace worn blades and, while you're at it, don't forget to fill the car with washer fluid that contains an antifreeze solution that can withstand the drop in temperature.
- KEEP A FULL TANK (at least halfway) - This prevents moisture from freezing in the fuel lines.
- CHECK THE TIRES - Use a tire gauge to monitor tire pressure. The cold causes air to contract, which can reduce the traction in your tires.
- CHECK THE BATTERY - Unlike your smoke detector with that pesky beep, your car's battery does not give advanced warning when it is on its last legs. Very cold temperatures can reduce battery capacity by up to 50 percent. If your battery is over 3 years old, have it checked by a certified technician.
- CHARGE THE CELL - Most of us keep a cell phone close by. Before any winter trip, and especially before the longer ones, make sure your cell phone is charged. If vehicle trouble arises it is far better to stay in the shelter of your car and make a phone call than to subject yourself to further troubles by walking through dangerous conditions to find help.
- KEEP A KIT - Winter weather can provide a host of problems, which is why you need to keep an emergency kit with a host of solutions. Throw a bag in the back and stock it with such items as: a flashlight, jumper cables, food and water, an ice scraper, a blanket, warm clothes and a first aid kit.
- DE-ICE TO UNLOCK - Don't compound the problem of frozen locks by breaking your key off by trying to force them open. A number of de-icing solutions are sold at discount or auto parts stores. But remember, if your locks are frozen keeping de-icer in your car won't do any good.
- CHECK YOUR LIGHTS - Snow, sleet and freezing rain mean reduced visibility. Be sure your fellow drivers see you coming by making sure all of your lights are in proper working order.
- PRACTICE MAKES PERFECT - Haven't changed a flat in awhile? Don't know where your spare tire even is? It's far better to run through things now, while the weather is still decent, than to try and figure it out when the snow is piling up around you at six in the morning.
- BONUS TIP - WINTER DRIVING = WINTER DRIVING SKILLS - Driving in snow is tricky, but not impossible as long as you keep a few things in mind. It takes longer to slow down when the roads are covered in the slick stuff. Start to brake long before you normally would and pay special attention at intersections where vehicles are coming from multiple directions.