10 Winter Car Care Tips

 

Driving in the winter presents some challenges that you need to be prepared for. Here are 10 winter car care tips to help you winterize your car and keep you safe while driving.

1. Get Your Car Serviced

Bring your vehicle to a trusted service station to winterize your car. At Ken Ganley Ford Parma, we'll check your car's battery, the cooling system, brakes, belts, and hoses.

2. Invest in Winter Tires

Winter tires are specially manufactured to stay flexible in cold temperatures. This improves braking and handling in cold conditions.

3. Check the Tire Pressure

When the check tire pressure light pops on, don't ignore it. Cold temperatures mean low pressure in the tires, which affects handling and stopping ability.

2.Make Sure You Have Enough Gas

Nobody wants to run out of gas, but imagine running out of gas when it's 20 degrees out, and you have to walk a mile to the nearest gas station. Plus, a nearly empty gas tank can cause water to form in the tank and make your fuel pump freeze.

5. Check the Wipers

Worn-out wipers will not properly remove water and snow from your windshield. The result is a dangerous condition because you can't see what's in front of you.

6. Check the Wiper Fluid Level

When driving in snowy conditions, you will need a clean windshield. Other vehicles around you will shower your windshield with snow that has accumulated on the ground, and you need wiper fluid to clean it off.

7. Make Sure the Rear Defroster Works

You don't want to find out that your rear defroster isn't working with the first snow. Not being able to see out the back window is dangerous, so make sure the defroster works.

8. Learn How to Drive in Winter Conditions

Many people underestimate winter weather conditions and drive the same way they do in summer. Learn how temperature changes and precipitation change the way you need to drive and don't assume that your SUV can stop better than a car on snow or ice.

9. Check the Weather

Be aware of changing weather conditions. You don't want to be far from home only to find out 6+ inches of snow have fallen and you are stuck. Check the weather and be prepared.

10. Prepare a Car Emergency Kit

It's a great idea to be prepared for anything that winter has in store. Keep a kit in your car with a snow shovel, a snow brush, a first aid kit, and a flashlight.

Winter car care can help keep you safe and your car in good condition. If you're in the Cleveland, Jefferson, or Lakewood areas, contact Ken Ganley Ford Parma for winter service, car maintenance, or winter tires.