How To Prepare Your Car For Winter

Winterizing your car is one of the most important things you do all year when it comes to your safety and the safety of your family. Its best to prepare prior to the rough weather, so the perfect time to start is around late fall, while you still have enough time to take care of any unforeseen faults and get the car ready, both inside and out, for the cold weather.
We are hoping that our winter check list will help you prepare yourself for the upcoming season. Don’t forget that once you’ve finished with the list there are still more important things to consider while driving during the winter.

Here’s our handy checklist:

Battery and electrical system– the last thing you want is a battery that won’t start in the winter. Check that your battery is fully intact. Make sure it is charged and check the manufacture date. If your battery is four years old it is best to replace it before the winter.
Engine oil– the low temperatures have an effect on your engine oil, so it is best to check which type of oil is best for your car in the area in which you are driving with a mechanic or the manufacturer, and if necessary replace the oil in your car.
Coolant/ Antifreeze– these might need to be replaced as well. Coolant doesn’t only keep your car from overheating, it also protects the engine from corrosion. Prior to the winter replace your coolant with coolant that contains ethylene glycol which will protect your car’s engine.
Tires– inspect your tires and make sure they’re safe for wet and slippery weather and don’t forget to make sure that there is enough air in your tires, including your spare.
Windshield– check if your windshield wipers are broken or dry and need to be replaced and make sure you have enough washer fluid (mixed with antifreeze solution). If necessary, unblock nozzles.
Lights– make sure the lights are all working
Ask a professional to check your car and make sure it’s ready for winter driving.

Here are a few things you should do before and when driving during the winter:

Plan your route before you leave
Check the weather report and road conditions before leaving and allow yourself plenty of time to drive safely.
Always carry a cell phone will a full battery, which has your emergency numbers.
Always keep your gas tank as full as you can.
Before driving make sure your exhaust pipe is clear.
Make sure that everyone in the car is always buckled up when driving.

Don’t forget that driving in winter is different from driving in summer, and there is more chance of running into an emergency. Always keep a first aid kit and an emergency kit (containing: flashlight, batteries, warm blanket, drinking water, spare engine oil, washer fluid, coolant) in your car.

Have a very safe winter season.