5 Tips to Prepare Your Vehicle for the Winter
Even if it doesn?t seem likely, summer is coming to an end. Before we know it, there will be snow and ice on the ground and we will be navigating through icy roads, rather than driving around with our windows down. As the summer comes to an end, it is time to begin preparing your vehicle for winter driving conditions. The following steps will prepare you and your vehicle for safe, winter driving.
Schedule an inspection
It is a hassle to deal with auto problems any time of the year. However, when you deal with auto problems during the winter, you can be left out in the cold. It is best to schedule an auto inspection before the weather turns cold. That way, you can make any necessary repairs before the temperature drops. You might even receive cheaper rates, as auto repair shops do not get busier until the weather changes.
Change your tires
If you live in a four season state, you should either have all season tires or two different sets of tires for your vehicle. The same tires that you drive on during the summer are not designed for snowy or icy roads. Also, if you use them to drive year round, they wear down much quicker. Tires with worn treading can be very dangerous in winter driving conditions. Change your tires now to prepare for the winter roads. Also, be sure that you are purchasing tires that are specifically fit for your vehicle and that are designed for winter driving. If changing your tires is not currently in the budget, at least have them rotated so that you are driving on different threading.
Install a backup camera
One of the most common types of auto accidents involves improper backing up. It can be difficult enough to see everything that is behind you, but winter weather conditions can make it even harder. A backup camera is routed to your dashboard, allowing you to better see what is behind you, before backing up. Each year, an estimated 292 people are killed and 18,000 injured by drivers who back into them. Backup cameras reduce the likelihood of a back over collision or crash by at least 46%. Additionally, 80% of surveyed drivers agreed that backup cameras improved their safety.
Schedule an oil change
Clean oil is necessary for a clean engine. Your vehicle?s engine works harder during the winter months. Make sure you change your oil before the first snow falls. An oil change is quick and can be completed in an hour or two. It is also very affordable, with many oil change shops throughout your city. If you purchased your vehicle from a dealership, it is even possible that your oil changes are already included or that you can receive a discounted price when going there. Make it a habit to schedule an oil change every time you go in for regular car maintenance.
Check your antifreeze levels
Car antifreeze is important in preventing the oils and other liquids in your vehicle from freezing during the cold winter. It can also help with improving the efficiency of diesel fuel, which can be affected by cold weather. The life of diesel fuel drops to between six and 12 months when kept at ambient temperatures above 86 degrees Fahrenheit. Freezing or negative temperatures can also affect both the life and efficiency of the diesel fuels. If you still have a problem with your diesel fuels, consider using diesel fuel additives.
We are just a couple of months away from winter. The end of the summer is the perfect time to begin preparing your vehicle for winter driving conditions. Some important preparations include scheduling an inspection, getting an oil change, changing or rotating your tires, and checking your antifreeze levels. These steps will ensure that your vehicle is ready for safe driving.