7 Tips to Prepare Your Car (and Your wallet) for colder weather
As the weather starts to turn colder, it's time to start thinking about preparing your car for the winter months. This can seem like a daunting task, but we've got you covered with 7 easy tips that will help get your car ready for the snow and ice. With just a little bit of preparation, you can rest assured that your car will be able to handle whatever winter throws its way. So let's get started!
Make sure you have an extended car warranty
Preparing your car for winter should be a top priority, and having an extended car warranty is one way to ensure your vehicle is protected properly. If you’re looking for an extended warranty for cars over 100k miles, many companies offer this. So if you think your car is too old, you don’t have to worry about that.
Extended warranties can offer powertrain protection, as well as comprehensive coverage of other vital components including the engine, transmission and electrical systems.
Taking advantage of an extended warranty can save you from potentially costly repair bills in the future. If you use your vehicle heavily during the winter months, exploring options for keeping your car in optimal shape should be a priority—an extended warranty can provide peace of mind, so you can drive with confidence all year round.
Keep an emergency kit in your car - this should include things like a blanket, first-aid kit, and snacks
Keeping an emergency kit in your car is essential for safe driving. Not having one could mean you are caught unprepared and under equipped during unexpected circumstances on the road.
Besides a traditional first-aid kit, your emergency kit should also include important items like a blanket and snacks, particularly if you’re heading out for a long trip or drive. Blankets are ideal for cooler months when temperatures may suddenly drop and offer warmth in moments of need.
Snacks provide quick nourishment when facilities may not be accessible or available. In addition to the basic necessities, do consider putting flashlights, raincoats, navigation items, flares and even matches in your car's emergency kit to ensure that you are always prepared.
Get your car's oil changed - this will help it run more smoothly in the colder weather
This winter, make sure you get your car's oil changed. It is an important step in keeping it running smoothly, especially as the temperature drops. The oil can thicken, reducing lubrication and potentially causing engine damage.
Plus, getting an oil change is relatively inexpensive versus what you might end up paying for costly engine repairs if the oil isn't changed in time. It's a small step that could save you a lot of money down the line, so take action now and get your car's oil changed.
Check your tires - make sure they have enough tread and are inflated properly
It is important to regularly inspect and maintain your vehicle's tires. Be sure you have the proper pressure for all of your tires, including your spare. This can help make sure that your car has the best fuel efficiency, rides smoothly and safely handles on the roads.
It is also essential to check the tread depth on a regular basis so you don't end up with balding tires or on wet roadways without appropriate grip or traction. Investing in routine tire maintenance will give you peace of mind knowing that you're prepared for unforeseen situations and well-equipped for long trips ahead!
Fill up your windshield washer fluid - you'll need it to keep your windshield clean in the winter
Windshield washer fluid is an important part of winter driving that is often overlooked. Without it, your windshield will quickly become covered in a layer of grime and salt that can greatly reduce visibility.
It's easy to fill up before the winter season hits – all you need is a container of concentrated washer fluid and access to your car’s windshield wiper system reservoir.
Once filled up, you can drive confidently knowing that no matter how much crud the roads throw at your windshield, you'll be able to keep it clear with just the push of a button!
Inspect your battery - cold weather can cause batteries to die, so make sure yours is in good shape
With temperatures dropping, it is important to regularly inspect your car battery. Living in cold climates can be tough on battery life, as batteries naturally struggle to provide power in low temperatures. Even a seemingly healthy battery may become depleted in extreme weather conditions.
To help ensure reliable performance, make sure all cables and terminals are clean, secure, and properly lubricated. If there is any corrosion buildup then clean it with baking soda dissolved in water —do not use a metal brush or wire tool!
Remember that the battery will eventually reach its end of life; you should replace it if it's 4 years old or older, or if any of the electrolyte level indicators indicate levels lower than those indicated on the casing.
In short, do whatever you can to keep your battery working correctly - following these simple steps will help keep you on the road this winter!
Invest in a set of snow tires - these will help you get around in the snow and ice safely
If winter weather is a regular obstacle you face in the coming months, investing in a set of snow tires can help provide you with the added protection and safety to get around confidently while on a road trip.
Snow tires are specifically designed for better grip and maneuverability on hazardous or icy roads. Their design helps ensure that your car remains steady even when accelerating or turning, helping give you peace of mind every time you have to drive in cold weather.
Instead of worrying about slipping and sliding all over the place, equipping your vehicle with snow tires can help make it easier for you to get around this season.
These are just a few of the things you can do to prepare your car for winter. By taking care of these items now, you can help prevent problems down the road and keep yourself safe all season long.