ALT-2 Essential Steps to Winterize your Car
We depend on our vehicles every day, so preparing it for winter may be one of the most important things that you can do. It’s bad enough to be stranded along the road in the summer when your car breaks down, but in the winter, it can be deadly.Oil changes and regular preventive maintenance should be performed during the entire year. Most car manufacturers recommend that the oil be changed every three to four thousand miles, however, there are a few models that may be able to go a bit longer. Schedule an oil change in the fall, as well as a complete tune up. Since one of the biggest complaints with cars in cold weather is a dead battery, now is the time to have this important item checked, and replaced if necessary. Have all fluids checked, especially the anti freeze. The radiator should be checked for leaks, and fluid replaced. While the car is in the shop, have the electrical system checked out as well as the heating element and defroster. A frosty morning is no time to find out that your defroster isn’t working.Nothing is more dangerous when driving on snow and ice than bald tires. So, if you have been putting off getting some tires that actually have some tread, now is the time. They can be expensive, but buying a set of tires that are rated for snow, ice, and wet conditions are vital for your protection and the safety of your family.A lot of us struggle with windshield wiper blades that have long since outlived their usefulness. In a rain or snow storm, these are important accessories for visibility, and should be replaced when they are worn. Likewise, make sure that you have windshield washer fluid.Carrying some added supplies may very well save your life if you live or travel in snowy, cold areas. Of course, you should always carry a car emergency kit. These contain some simple tools, a flashlight, jumper cables, and a first aid kit. Keep a foldable snow shovel in your trunk, along with some sand or material, that can be put under a tire that is stranded on a patch of ice. Sometimes, all it takes is a little shoveling to get you out of a bad situation. Warm coats, thermal blankets, boots, hats, and gloves are also important accessories to keep on hand. And, in the event that worst comes to worst, it’s always a good plan to have some bottled drinks, and some packaged energy foods, such as granola bars stashed away somewhere.Winter driving is sometimes a challenge, but with a few preventative measures, it can become a safer experience.
