Winter driving can make everyone a bit nervous from time to time. Even if you’ve been driving on snow-filled roads for years, it’s always good to be well-prepared. At Joe’s Auto Sales, we want you to be safe on these sometimes crazy winter roads and ready for that surprising storm that comes through while you’re traveling. Follow these five winter driving tips as you get your car ready for winter travel.
1. Perform Winter Maintenance
One of the most effective ways to get your car ready for winter is to have it thoroughly serviced before the snow flies. Ask your mechanic to check these areas:
- Battery: the power can decrease with colder temperatures
- Cooling system: to ward against corrosion and potential freezing
- Brakes: due to icy and slippery winter roads
- Belts, hoses, spark plugs, and more: to avoid getting stranded from broken or damaged components
2. Install Winter Tires
If you don’t have all-season tires on your car, we highly recommend having winter tires installed. These tires are built to withstand extremely cold temperatures, grip icy roads much better than non-snow tires, and provide better traction for wet, slushy roads.
3. Replace Windshield Wipers
Keep your windshield free of ice and snow with winter wiper blades. These wipers are specifically made to prevent ice from forming, so you can always have a clear view of the road. They are heavier than regular wipers so be sure to switch them out when the snow is gone.
4. Fill Washer Fluid
Winter brings snow, ice, and slush, which can end up on your windshield. Be sure to top off your washer fluid levels more often than usual. You may want to purchase windshield washer fluid formulated for cold temperatures; regular washer fluid can freeze in the reservoir.
5. Keep Your Gas Tank Full
The last thing you want is to be stuck in a snowstorm with an almost empty gas tank. We highly recommend not allowing your gas tank to go below half-full. This will keep your mind at ease while traveling, and it will also keep your family safe in the event you’re stuck on the side of the road.
Serving Indianapolis Since 1992
Make sure your car is ready for winter by scheduling an appointment at our service center. Contact our East Indianapolis location at (317) 405-8545. We also sell used cars, used trucks, and used SUVs if your vehicle needs to be upgraded before winter arrives.
Source: “Tips for Winterizing Your Car.” Web article. Bridgestone Tire. Bridgestone Americas Tire Operations, LLC, 01 Apr. 2021. Web. 15 Sep. 2022.