With winter well underway, it’s important to make sure you’re prepared for whatever these cold months might throw at you. These five essentials tips will be a great start to beating the harshness of winter.
1. Keep an Emergency Kit in Your Car
It’s obvious you’ll want a spare tires and the tools to change out a flat but most of us don’t think of the extras often. During winter you’ll want an emergency car kit that includes:
• Battery Cables
• Flashlights and Flares
• Extra Gloves
• Winter Boots
• Blanket
• Ice Scraper
2. Check Your Car’s Belts and Hoses
Belts and hoses should be check with every tune-up, however it’s a great idea to check them during winter too. Cold temperatures can weaken belts and hoses. If you are out on the road and one snaps or breaks, a tow truck will be the only thing that will get your vehicle moving again.
3. Invest in New Windshield Wipers
Everyone has had that dreadful moment when they are caught in a rain storm and find out their windshield wipers are actually making visibility worse. Don’t let that be you! Low visibility can make driving in poor conditions extremely dangerous. It’s suggest to make sure your blades are change every 6-12 months based on how often they are used. Keep in mind it’s important to have constantly filled washer fluid as well.
4. Check Heating and Defrosting Units
Defrosters are important when it comes to keeping condensation at a minimum. If you are experiencing fogging and extra condensation be sure to have your car checked for air leaks around the doors and windows.
5. Check Your Battery
A good car battery will last anywhere from three to five years, so it’s important to keep track of how old your battery might be. Winter also causes your engine to work harder putting extra pressure on the battery. If your battery has white powder around the clamps-this is corrosion from battery acid and can be easily cleaned off with baking soda and water.
Winter can be a wonderful time of year! Make sure your car is ready to go out and adventure during the winter months by following these helpful tips! Call one of Granite’s factory trained and certified service advisors to schedule a winterization today.
Connect with us
