Get Your Car Ready for Cold Weather

Winter weather is just around the corner and before you know it, the roads will turn into slushy, slippery weather. As a result, there are more factors involved with driving safe during winter weather. Now is the time to prep your car for winter driving with the following tips.

1. Check Your Vehicle’s Battery

A dead battery can be extremely inconvenient at any time of the year. But, when it happens during the winter, you could be left stranded on the side of the road, cold. Extremely cold temperatures can put added strain on the battery. Before the temperatures get too cold, test your vehicle’s battery. Look for corroded wires and spray some terminal lube on them to prevent corrosion buildup. You can also check the fit of the battery cables, ensuring that they are tight. If your battery consistently needs to be charged, then you might consider replacing it now.

2. Schedule Any Required Maintenance

If you have been putting off vehicle maintenance, now is the time to schedule it. If you need any preventative maintenance, like tire rotations or your spark plugs changed, you will want to have it done before winter. This often includes things like checking the wiper fluids and oil levels. Your technician will also give your vehicle a full inspection, including your brakes, which are especially important on cold, slippery roads. They might also flip on the heat and ensure that it is ready to go.

3. Create an Emergency Kit

Despite taking certain precautions to prep your vehicle for winter driving, it is still possible to break down. This is why it is a good idea to create an emergency kit ahead of time and leave it in your vehicle’s trunk. Include items like a first aid kit, an extra battery for your phone, a blanket, and some water. Some people even choose to include a pair of clothes, so you can keep warm if your vehicle breaks down in the cold.

4. Check Your Tires

Often tires are an overlooked aspect of your vehicle. Unless they start making noise or go flat many of us forget that they need regular maintenance. During winter weather there are even more elements that can reduce your traction, so it is important that your tires are in the best condition possible. Schedule an appointment to have your tires checked and if necessary get a tire rotation or new tires. Being prepared for low-traction driving situations starts with having tires that will give you the best traction possible during the winter.

Whether you’re prepared for winter or not, it will soon be here. Get your vehicle ready for winter by scheduling an inspection with Jordan Ford and checking your car battery. Taking these steps now will ensure that you’re prepared for the most wintry of roads.

Image via Pixabay by microb111

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