How to Prepare yourself for Winter Driving
Preparing for a road trip in winter should be done with caution. This is mainly due to the fact that winter is unpredictable (the weather conditions can change rapidly causing snow piles and making the road surfaces turn icy) it is therefore crucial for you to prepare adequately for winter driving.
Winter road trips can be quite exciting however it is also important for you to ensure that you and your car are in a good condition before you go driving in winter. The following tips below will show you some of the effective ways to prepare yourself for winter driving.
Take your car for a thorough check up
Your car should be taken to a qualified mechanic for a thorough check-up; the last thing that you want to face is your car breaking down in the middle of nowhere in extreme cold temperatures which are experienced in winter. You should ask the mechanic to check your car’s oil, tires, brakes, lights, exhaust system, the engine, the heater and defroster, the battery and every other part of the car which is vital in making sure that the car is functional.
If possible you should install a new battery especially if the current one is more than 3 years old. It is essential to have a proper functioning battery rather than have one which has low power. Ask the mechanic to also check your car’s belts and hoses for any wear and tear. If they need to be replaced, you can ask your mechanic to replace all the worn out belts and hoses. Remember it is better to be safe than sorry, make sure that your car is functioning well before you go driving it in winter.
Change the oil and fill up all the other lubricants
You should have your car’s oil changed, this is very important especially because of the fact that there is a specific type of oil suitable for a winter driving which is available on the market.
Check for theantifreezelevel in your car’s radiator
You should use a mixture of half water and half antifreeze which will help in preventing your radiator from freezing during winter. You can check for the antifreeze levels in your car’s radiator by using an antifreeze tester which is readily available in most auto retail shops or auto dealer shops in your area.
Replace the wiper blades
Your visibility when driving in winter is crucial which is why it is important for you to replace any worn out wiper blades with new ones and decrease visibility during winter.
Refill the windshield washer fluid
It is essential to check for the windshield washer fluid when driving in winter. You should use a fluid which is rated for a minimum of -40 degrees Celsius. You should also travel with an extra container for fluid in the car trunk just in case you need to top up the windshield washer fluid.
Replace any worn out tires
Good tires are a must have for any driver especially if you are going for a long trip. Replace any worn out tires and make sure that your car is functioning properly during your drive in winter. You should replace your car’s tire with winter tires which will provide you with a much better tracking and improve your car’s braking in the event of a skid while driving in winter.
Keep your gas tank at half full
As a way of preventing your car’s gas lines from freezing during winter you should keep your gas tank at least half full. The gas lines can freeze during winter due to the buildup of condensation in the lines.
Pack a car tool kit and a winter survival kit
Make sure that you pack your car tool kit with all the tools which you will need in the event of a car breakdown while driving in winter. Your winter survival kit should include an ice scraper, road flares, a shovel, sandy or kitty litter, a fire extinguisher, a match box or lighter, booster cables, rope(preferably tow rope), a flashlight, batteries, extra shoes, extra gloves, warm clothing, a blanket, towels, drinking water, food, car charger, energy bars etc.
Have a proper route plan
Planning your route in advance is essential, you should use main roads which are more likely to be plowed or sanded in extreme weather conditions such as snow. You should have an updated road map before you go for your trip. You should also inform your family and friends of your route plan and the day that you intend to travel back. In the event that you delay to come back, they can inform the concerned authorities to search for you.
You should listen to the weather forecast on your anticipated route and make any necessary adjustments such as changing your route or rescheduling the time of departure. Avoid driving at night in winter and only drive during the day.
Practice how to drive in winter
If you are preparing to go driving in winter, you should practice driving in a snowy weather by driving after a storm in a large parking lot with your car. You should practice how to brake safely and also learn how to maneuver your way during a skid. This practice will teach you a few things about how to drive safely during winter when the roads are snowy and icy.
Have a fully charged phone
When driving in winter is essential for you to have a fully charged phone in case of an emergency and you need to call for help. Make sure that you also have a GPS with proper navigation information.
Carry an emergency fund
When driving in winter you should carry extra cash with you just in case you get stranded and you need to stay in a motel for a few more days till the snow clears. You can also carry along with you your credit cards in the event that your emergency fund runs out and you are left with no money.
