5 Tips For Preparing To Drive In The Winter

When the winter season hits, there is a lot to think about. You need to winterize your home, stock up on supplies in case you get snowed in, and take good care of your car. Aside from winterizing your vehicle, you should also be ready for driving in cold temperatures:

Warm Your Car Up Before Driving

When you are driving in the winter, you should never start driving off immediately after starting the engine. Your engine needs a few minutes to warm up. One good way to time it is by turning on the radio when you start the car and listening through one or two songs.

Make sure you open the door or roll down the window if you are parked in a closed garage when warming up the car. If you are parked outside, you can remove ice from your windshields while waiting for the car to warm up.

Change Your Oil and Antifreeze

Before the winter season hits, make sure you start by changing your oil. Not only should it be changed regularly, but you need to use a type of oil that is not as thick when you will be winter driving. With lower temperatures, the oil may thicken up.

With oil that has a less-thick consistency, your oil won't turn into sludge, making it less effective. You should also make sure the antifreeze is filled up and that you are using a proper amount of antifreeze and water for your radiator.

Keep Your Gas Tank as Full as Possible

It is always a good idea to have as much gas in your tank as possible, but especially in the winter. Be sure your gas tank is always at least half-full as this reduces the risk of the gas lines becoming frozen. If you consistently drive your car in the winter when it is at a quarter full, you may end up with frozen gas lines that will need to be repaired or replaced. Speaking of gas, using the highest grade gas you can afford will benefit you and help your vehicle run more efficiently.

Stock Up on Essential Supplies

Before you head out during the winter, make sure your vehicle has all the proper supplies. Since it will be cold and snowy weather, you should always have a change of clothes as well as extra shoes and socks, blankets, and heavy coats. Have emergency supplies like bottled water, flashlights and batteries, extra phone batteries that are fully charged, and a first aid kit. You also want to have towing supplies just in case you get stuck in a snow pile.

Get a Tune-Up

Lastly, have a tune-up before the winter season approaches. This allows you to get proper maintenance on your vehicle and any necessary repairs done. The last thing you want to do is break down on the highway when it is below freezing out. If you do need repairs while on the side of the road, mobile mechanics are available.

Contact a company like Immortal Auto Moto for more help.

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