7 Tips to Prepare Your Car for the Cold Season!

1. Tire Maintenance

- Tread and Inflation: Ensure your tires have adequate tread depth and are properly inflated, as cold temperatures can reduce tire pressure. Consider switching to winter tires for enhanced traction on snow and ice

2. Battery Check

- Performance: Cold weather can diminish battery capacity. Have your battery tested to confirm it's in good condition, and clean any corrosion from the terminals to ensure reliable starts.

3. Fluid Levels

Oil: Use a winter-grade, lower-viscosity oil to maintain engine lubrication in cold temperatures.

Coolant: Verify that your coolant mixture is appropriate for winter to prevent freezing.

Windshield Washer Fluid: Fill with winter-specific fluid that resists freezing and aids in clearing frost and ice.

4. Windshield and Wipers

Wipers: Install winter wiper blades designed to handle ice and snow.

De-Icing: Apply a rain-repellent spray, such as Rain-X, to your windshield to prevent ice buildup and reduce scraping time.

5. Emergency Kit

Essentials: Equip your car with an ice scraper, snow brush, shovel, flashlight, first aid kit, jumper cables, warm clothing, blankets, and traction aids like sand or cat litter.

6. Driving Practices

Speed and Distance: Drive slowly and increase your following distance to accommodate longer stopping times on slippery roads.

Braking: Apply brakes gently to avoid skidding. If your vehicle has antilock brakes, apply firm, steady pressure.

7. Additional Tips

Fuel: Keep your gas tank at least half full to prevent gas line freeze-up.

Exhaust Pipe: Ensure the exhaust pipe is clear of snow to prevent carbon monoxide buildup if you're idling.