Depending on where you live, you should prepare for winter. Here is an easy-to-follow checklist to get your vehicle ready for winter.
1. Check your tires
Driving in the snow is already no fun, but if you have tires that are worn out, it can be dangerous. You should check for cracks and see how good the tire's tread is. The thread should be at least 5/32" and never should be less than 2/32". It's also important to check the tire pressure to make sure there is enough air in them.
2. Check your battery
When it's freezing out, batteries that aren't in good shape sometimes won't start. So you'll want to make sure that there are no cracks and run a battery load test if you know how to do it.
3. Check the coolant & oil
You'll want to use a coolant that can handle freezing temperatures. It helps keep the car from overheating, which is what you don't want to happen. It also protects damage from the parts that may be in contact with each other. Essentially, it makes sure that the engine doesn't freeze or overheat. It's also essential to check the oil. If it needs to be changed, it's a good time to change it.
4. Check the windshield wiper fluid & wiper blades
The worst thing to happen is driving in a blizzard, and you can't use your windshield wipers because there wasn't enough fluid. Always make sure there is enough windshield wiper fluid. You'll want to use freeze-resistant windshield wiper fluid during the winter. You will also want to make sure that the wiper blades are in good shape as well, so it can clear the windshield when you need it to.
5. Emergency Kit
Every car that goes through winter should always have an emergency kit. A kit can include:
- Shovel
- Blankets
- Flares
- Sand/cat litter for traction
- Food
- Tire jack
- First Aid Kit
If you need help to get your vehicle ready for the winter, we invite you to bring your vehicle into inMOTION Auto Care today!