Whether you’re planning a road trip or just a trip to the mall, winter driving can be dangerous when the weather begins to deteriorate. Keeping up with basic auto maintenance, as well as following some safe winter driving tips will help you and your family stay safe all winter long.
Plan Ahead
Fall is the time to take care of routine winter maintenance. That way, your car will be tuned and ready when the rough weather hits.
Check Fluids
Have your mechanic check your vehicle’s coolant, antifreeze, oil and transmission fluids. In winter, especially in colder climates, you’ll want to use a lower viscosity oil, which will circulate more quickly into the engine at start-up, making it easier for the engine to turn over. Make sure radiator hoses are in good shape as well.
Maintenance
Check your battery to make certain there isn't corrosion buildup on or around the terminals. Corrosion interferes with the flow of electricity and may drain your battery prematurely.
Check all lights and replace burned out bulbs.
Replace wiper blades with winter windshield wipers, which keep snow and ice from building up.
Make sure your tires are in good shape for the winter and get winter tires if it’s necessary for where you live. In every climate, you should have high quality, all weather tires that will work well in an occasional storm.
Pack an Emergency Kit
No matter how careful you are, there's a chance you may run into problems when driving in severe winter weather. Be sure to include:
• A cell phone and phone list
• Tire chains, sand, salt or kitty litter
• A snow shovel, snow brush and ice scraper
• A portable battery charger and booster cables
• Flares or hazard-reflectors
• A flashlight and emergency light
• Fuel line de-icer, windshield-wiper fluid and extra antifreeze
• A blanket and extra clothing including windproof pants and warm footwear
• A first aid kit
• Emergency food and water
• Matches and emergency candles
• Road maps
• A "call police" or other "HELP" sign
Drive Safely
Your risk of an accident when driving on slick roads is three times that encountered in normal driving conditions. Before driving in snow or ice, consider carefully if the trip is worth it. If you can delay your trip until the roads are clear, you may avoid a potential accident.
If You Must Go
Before driving, clear snow and ice from the windshield, roof and mirrors. Defrost the windows and clear snow from the headlights and taillights.
Drive slowly. On a slick road, it may take up to ten times longer to stop than it would on a dry road.
If You Begin To Skid
Gently accelerate to transfer weight back to the rear wheels. Steer in the same direction as the skid, just as you were taught to do back in driver’s education class.
If You Get Stuck
If you're stuck on ice or snow, avoid spinning the tires, as the friction will melt the surface or pack the snow, making the situation worse. This is where your emergency kit comes in handy. Placing cat litter or sand, or even one of the floor mats under the wheels may help you gain traction.
Your To Do List
Put your pre-winter car prep on your To Do list now. You’ll thank yourself later.
