The days are getting shorter which means winter is just around the corner, it’s never too early to start preparing! Don’t forget about your vehicle during those cold months.
Tires
Your vehicle works overtime to trudge through the ice and snow. Make sure you check your tires! Without proper traction you may find yourself slipping and sliding all over the winter road ways. Did you know, as a standard in the automotive industry, you should consider replacing your tires when they reach approximately 3/32″ of remaining tread depth?
Wiper blades
Avoid struggling to see through all the ice, snow, salt and sand that’s builds up on your windshield. Don’t forget to check and replace your wiper blades!
Battery
As part of your routine oil change, ask your mechanic to check the health of your battery. The summer’s heat puts a lot of wear and tear on your battery and when the weather gets cold a weak battery may leave you stranded!
Anti-freeze
Another thing to check is your anti-freeze, not only does it keep your engine from overheating, it also keeps it from freezing. Here in the northeast we experience negative temperatures, most antifreeze should protect your engine from freezing up to minus thirty-four degrees Fahrenheit.
Emergency Kit
Aside from the things your vehicle needs, don’t forget about yourself in case of an emergency! Here’s a few things you could include in an “emergency kit” for your vehicle.
- High calorie non-perishable food and water
- First Aid Kit
- Phone Charger
- Jumper cables
- Flares and/or Reflectors
- Extra clothing
- Toothbrush
- Flashlight and extra batteries