Winter and its chill brings the risk of icy, snow-covered roads that can make driving treacherous. Preparing your car with essential seasonal maintenance is vital for both your safety and the longevity of your vehicle during these harsher conditions.
Why Proper Winter Car Care Is Essential
Snowy weather can create hazardous road conditions, leading to accidents. In 2022 alone, there were 498 fatal crashes caused by snow and sleet conditions, not to mention thousands of injuries. Proper seasonal maintenance can significantly reduce these risks.
Don't Cheap Out on Snow Tires
One of the most crucial steps for ice-season safety is swapping out your all-season tires for snow tires. Snow tires are specifically designed to provide better traction on icy roads. They also maintain better grip at lower temperatures, saving you from potential accidents and increasing the lifespan of your all-season tires.
Steps for Pre-Winter Maintenance
Check Your Tires
Inspect the tread depth (use the quarter test to ensure safety). Keep tires inflated to the manufacturer's recommended pressure levels. Consider installing snow tires for optimal slushy terrain traction.
Test Your Battery
Cold weather reduces battery power. Visit a mechanic to check its condition and replace it if necessary.
Check Fluid Levels
Make sure your windshield wiper fluid is topped off with a winter-grade solution. Also, inspect and refill coolant, oil, and other critical fluids as needed.
Upgrade Your Wipers
Invest in heavy-duty winter blades for better visibility. These blades are designed to handle snow, ice, and slush, preventing buildup and ensuring a clear view of the road during harsh winter conditions. Unlike standard wiper blades, winter-specific versions feature a durable rubber coating that resists cracking in low temperatures and provides consistent performance even in the most challenging weather.
Pack an Emergency Kit
Include a snow shovel, blankets, flares, jumper cables, and more in your winter emergency kit. A snow shovel can help you dig out if you become stuck, while blankets provide warmth in case you have to wait for assistance. Flares or reflective triangles can alert other drivers to your location, increasing your visibility in low-light or snowy conditions.
Prepare your car today and drive confidently all winter long. Proper winter car care isn't just a necessity—it's a lifesaver.
Unsure how to prepare your vehicle for this winter? The service experts at Bush Auto Group are here to help. Our team is experienced and knowledgeable to help your car prepare for the coming snowy season now that we've had our first snowfall. From part purchases to routine seasonal maintenance and full body repair, we're here to help!
