Just like winterizing your closet and your house, your car needs extra preparation to make it through the winter as well. This is especially true in the Northeast, where blizzards and storms can come out of nowhere and do some serious damage. Properly winterizing your car and emergency supplies can be a major help when a dangerous situation arises on the roadways this winter. This year, make sure your car is as prepared as you are.
Winterizing Your Car
Winterizing your car is the most important thing you can do to keep it on the roads during the winter months. To begin preparing your car for winter weather, use this list to help you get started.
- Coolant: Replace your coolant with antifreeze that is still effective even in very low temperatures. This will make sure your car’s cooling system stay moving properly.
- Wiper Fluid: You will need freeze resistant wiper fluid, as this helps keep your windshield clear in the coldest and iciest conditions.
- Battery: Check your battery and make sure it has enough charge left to make it through the winter. Extremely cold weather can make a good battery slow to start, and kill a bad battery.
- Tires: Make sure they are properly inflated and have enough tread left on them. Many car manufacturers recommend the switch to winter tires, as they grip better on snow and ice than summer or even all-season tires.
Making these checks can help ensure your safety and well-being when on your Christmas road trip or trek to grandma’s house.
Packing Emergency Supplies
Making sure that you have the proper emergency supplies is crucial. It’s better to be safe than sorry—especially in freezing temperatures. Items that should be included in your emergency supply kit include drinking water, flashlights, jumper cables, warm weather gear, and hand/feet warmers. It will also be wise to have ice scrapers, extra car fluids, and car oil on hand. View our blog Top Fourteen Things To Have In Your Car For Winter see an extensive list of supplies you need.
Two other items that can come in handy during an emergency in the winter are road flares and sand. When sand is put underneath the tires, it can give your car the grip it needs to remove itself from the snow or ice it’s stuck in. Road flares are important in any situation you can’t get yourself out of, like if you end up in a snow bank and you need to show other drivers your location.
Waiting for AAA or a friend to come save you from being stranded is awful, so it’s always good to have a contingency plan. Winterizing your car is an important annual process that if done correctly, can keep you on the road all season long. Driving in the winter can be a worry-free experience if you’re prepared with gear and a comprehensive insurance policy. Contact us if you have any questions about your auto insurance coverage and how well you are protected.
