The below-freezing temperatures in winter could cause a number of threats to your car. Besides, roads can get dangerous in winter, making driving in winter a real burden. In that regard, car owners should be aware of how to prepare for winter driving conditions. This includes winter driving tips, and winter packing tips. Here are some important considerations to have in mind when it comes to winter preparedness.
1. Check The Tire Tread
When preparing for winter driving, check the tires for tread wear. The best tires for winter have deep grooves in their tread. This allows snow and slush build up in the cavities. The deep treads help with traction. The tread on winter tires feature a distinctive pattern with narrow slits in the tread blocks. The narrow slits interlock and bite into the snow and ice providing additional traction and improved braking distance during winter. It is helpful to replace winter tires before the tread reaches its minimum depth.
2. Ensure Appropriate Tire Pressure
Low tire pressure can potentially be dangerous on winter roads. Therefore, you need to check the tire pressure and fill the tires as necessary. You can easily check the pressure at the filling station or the next service center.
3. Change Oil and Antifreeze
When preparing your car for the brutal winter season, think about the cars coolant. Often referred to as antifreeze, coolant is the fluid you find in the radiator. The coolant contains chemicals that stop water from freezing or from boiling in regular and extreme weather conditions. The coolant also contains anti rust and foaming inhibitors, which protects the radiator. Coolant is important in winter because it helps in preventing water from freezing.
4. Fix the Heater
If you will be driving around, you will definitely need the cars heating system. Thus, it helps if you prepare the heater appropriately. The objective is to prevent the discomfort that comes with the freezing winter temperatures especially when you are stuck in your car for an extended period. To prepare the car heater for winter driving, check the thermostat and replace it in case it seems faulty. The thermostat controls the coolant circulating through the engine. Check to make sure the blower motor is working. In a case where you cannot hear the fan, the motor could be defective.
5. Consider Replacing Brake and Windshield Fluids with Formulas Meant for Winter
Brake fluid matters because this is what keeps you safe in winter. In extreme weather conditions, you need to make sure your brakes are in top shape. Freezing temperatures might degrade the brake fluids. Brake fluid gets dirty in the winter, and could get diluted due to water accumulation, which is not good for your car. Therefore, it is important that you get a brake fluid that is appropriate for winter.
Conclusion
To keep yourself and your loved ones safe in winter, you have to stock your car adequately. In case of car trouble during winter storm, contact an experienced mechanic. Always keep a winter emergency kit in your car; you never know when you may need it. In case you get stuck in snow and you require a tow, contact an experienced and professional Yakima towing company.
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