With winter already making its presence felt in parts of the U.S., it\u2019s not too late to get your car ready for the cold months to come. We don\u2019t always give our cars as much thought as we should until temperatures plunge to arctic levels or our neighborhood gets buried by an unusually heavy snow storm.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
One of the first things you probably should have done was wash and wax your vehicle prior to the freezing weather and falling snow. If you didn\u2019t do it \u2013 don\u2019t feel bad \u2013 you\u2019re not alone. For future reference and ahead of next year\u2019s winter, you\u2019ll want to clean both the inside and outside of your vehicle. The reason for doing so is:<\/p>\n\n\n\n
\u2022<\/strong> A completely washed and waxed car\u2019s paint is protected from the elements. Worn tires significantly increase your chances of having an accident \u2013 by making it more difficult to stop in time due to deteriorating road conditions. Not only are you more susceptible to rear-ending the car in front of you, but it can also lead to losing control on slick pavement and driving off the road. Check your tires for excessive wear and replace them as soon as possible.<\/p>\n\n\n\n Cold weather puts enormous stress on your vehicle\u2019s battery and electrical system. Driving with accessories, such as headlights, defrosters, windshield wipers, and heater on all at the same time can drain your battery fairly quickly, if your electrical system isn\u2019t recharging it properly.<\/p>\n\n\n\n That\u2019s why having your battery tested for maximum cranking power as well as the electrical system for damaged wires and the ability to recharge your battery efficiently is so important \u2013 even after the first snow.<\/p>\n\n\n\n Be sure to also check your headlights, taillights, back up lights, and signal lights (including your emergency hazards) with a visual inspection.<\/p>\n\n\n\n While we tend to pay more attention to cooling system levels in the summer, checking them in the winter is just as smart. Incorrectly mixed coolant can result in a frozen radiator or engine damage. Check for cracked hoses and leaks. It only takes a couple of minutes and can save you big time.<\/p>\n\n\n\n Your local dealership or mechanic can give your car a more in-depth fluid check, including engine, transmission, differential, power steering and brakes.<\/p>\n\n\n\n Often neglected until they fall apart, your windshield wiper blades are a major part of maintaining proper visibility during the dark evening hours and blinding snowstorms.<\/p>\n\n\n\n \u2022<\/strong> Be sure your wipers are functioning properly and wipe clean across the windshield. Prepare for the unexpected. While your car may be in good shape for the winter months and you\u2019ve done everything you can think of to get it ready for the harsh temperatures and conditions, don\u2019t forget to pack a few essentials \u2013 just in case.<\/p>\n\n\n\n \u2022<\/strong> A set of tire chains, a collapsible shovel, a well-stocked emergency first aid kit and a set of jumper cables.
\u2022<\/strong> It makes snow and ice easier to brush off.<\/p>\n\n\n\nYour tires<\/h2>\n\n\n\n
Your battery and electrical system<\/h2>\n\n\n\n
Coolant and other vital fluids<\/h2>\n\n\n\n
Windshield wipers<\/h2>\n\n\n\n
\u2022<\/strong> Maintain an ample supply of winter washer fluid with a de-icer agent at all times.
\u2022<\/strong> Replace worn wiper blades immediately with those specially designed for winter.<\/p>\n\n\n\nBe prepared<\/h2>\n\n\n\n
\u2022<\/strong> A blanket, a flashlight, flares, candles and a lighter.<\/p>\n\n\n\n