Driving in sub-zero temperatures and on sleet-packed roads can be difficult, and even downright dangerous. So, it is essential to prepare your car well and avoid issues that come up in winter. Given below are a few tips on how to make your car winter-prepared and keep yourself safe on the harsh winter roads.
Check the Batteries
Winter is tough on the car’s battery, so one of the best tips on how to make your car winter prepared would be to check it. In winter, car battery capacity decreases and cause starting problems, stalling, and batteries dying out faster. So, park your car in the garage and use jumper cables while starting it.
Defrost the Engine
Using antifreeze is important to keep your engines from starting. Keep a kit handy to check coolant level, concentration, and condition to avoid being left stranded. Generally, it is recommended to use a 50/50 mix of antifreeze and water. Don’t forget to check get the engine terminals for corrosion and the tightness of the hoses, drive belts, and clamps. A mechanic can help you there.
Replace the Oil
As the weather grows colder, the motor oil tends to thicken and freeze. So, get an oil with thinner viscosity for your car. Viscosity is indicated by the first number in the oil specification. And the lower this number, the better the oil is for winter. This means 5W-30 oil is better than 10W-30 in this case.
Maintain Optimum Tire Pressure
One of the most important tips on how to make your car winter-prepared is to adjust the car’s tire pressure. It decreases especially if the temperature drops below 32 degrees Fahrenheit. Improper tire pressure can be hazardous as it leads to decreased control over the car.
Check Tread Depth
Since the winter roads can be slick and slippery, your tires need to have good tread depth. You can measure the tread of the tires using the Lincoln method. All you need to do is place a penny upside down in between the grooves of the tires. If the entirety of President Lincoln’s head is visible, replace the tires.
Invest in Winter Tires
If you live in an area where the temperatures drop below 40 degrees Fahrenheit, buying winter tires instead of all-season ones is a better choice. On slick roads, winter tires give you more traction and better grip.
Ensure Perfect Visibility
If there are cracks on the windshield, they will just worsen with the cold. So, they need to be replaced. Invest in rubber-clad blades that are specially designed for the winter and help fight ice build-up. Use the correct windshield wiper fluid to make your car winter-prepared. Pick the one that doesn’t freeze on the windshield and helps dislodge ice and snow.
Carry an Emergency Kit
Always keep a box in your car with a first-aid kit, extra winter clothing like gloves, jackets, boots, and blankets. This kit should also include flares, flashlights, and batteries. Don’t forget to keep tow chains in your car in case you get stuck in black ice, a shovel, and kitty litter or sand to help free your car by increasing traction..