As the seasons change from fall to winter, it’s time to prepare your vehicle for winter. Vehicle maintenance for every season is important. However, it’s especially important in winter. With dropping temperatures and falling snow, preparing your vehicle is a must.
Maintenance: Winter Tires
Placing a pair of sturdy winter tires on your vehicle is on of the most important things you can do when preparing you vehicle for the coming winter months. Verify the area you live in allows the types of tires you plan to place on your vehicle. Winter tires provide extra traction and help with ice and snow buildup. Research your local city for shops that can assist with placing winter tires on your vehicle. Check local ordinances on how long you can keep the tires on.
Maintenance: Wiper Blades
A good set of wiper blades during the winter is ideal. Wiper blades may crack and split over time, leading to slow squeaky blades which don’t perform well. When it snows, you want to make sure your wiper blades fully clear the snow off your windshield so you are able to see well while driving. Having streaks on your windshield is a sign your wiper blades need to be replaced. You may want to consider a more durable pair if you live in a harsher climate.
Maintenance: Tire Pressure
Maintaining the appropriate tire pressure for your vehicle is imperative. Fill any tires that are low before driving. In cooler weather, tire pressure can fluctuate. If you park your vehicle in a garage and then start driving in the cold, you may notice it fluctuate. Always keep an air compressor in your vehicle as you never know when you will need one.
Finally, make sure to carry a winter emergency kit in your vehicle. If your vehicle breaks down or you get stuck in a storm, the supplies located in these kits should help aid you until emergency responders arrive. Stay prepared so you can drive safely this winter season.
The Merdes Law Firm has been helping injured Alaskans for more than 30 years. It’s who we are. And while we hope you never need us … We’re here if you do. ~ Ward Merdes
Sources: Family Handyman and Consumer Reports
Image Source: Adobe Stock
