If your car has ever spun out of control on an icy road, or skidded on snow-laden streets, you know the importance of winter car safety. Winter driving requires extra attention. For your car to function properly in cold temperatures, you need to pay attention to a few key items:
Hazard Lights Are they functioning properly? Check the front and rear lights, and dont forget the drivers side and passenger side lights as well. While youre at it, check the other lights as well (ex. brake lights). Properly functioning lights are crucial in winter weather.
Antifreeze You dont want to get stuck (literally) without this during winter. Antifreeze keeps the liquids in your car from freezing solid.
Ignition System If your car is taking forever to turn over, have it checked out. It should start and run easily.
Snow Tires and/or Chains Some people buy snow tires or special tires for winter months. Other people prefer to use snow chains. Knowing how to put them on and use them is important. BEFORE the winter weather strikes, practice a few times. And think about buying the new types of snow chains that require less effort to put on and take off.
Battery Check your vehicles battery for the installation date. Ask a dealer how long your particular brand stays effective. If its getting close to conking out, its best to replace it prior to winter. You dont want to be stuck in bad weather with no lights or heater.
Thermostat If your cars dial is measuring near the H for hot, get it checked out. In some instances, your engine can fail due to a faulty thermostat. Its better to get it fixed rather than wait for a possible disaster.
Heater This is vital. What if you get stranded during the winter? Your cars heater could virtually save your life. Dont leave this until the last minuteget it checked out if theres a problem.
Exhaust System If you smell fumes in your car, have it checked out immediately. Exhaust fumes are poisonous.
Oil Its always important to have your cars oil level checked prior to driving. Like a thirsty traveler, cars need fuel to keep going, and oil is one of those fuels.
Its also a good idea to have certain items on hand in case you do get stranded during the winter months. A set of warm clothes or blankets, non-perishable food items, water, flashlights and matches, are all good examples of things to keep in your car. Also, make sure your windshield wipers are functioning properly. This is vital if you get caught in a storm.
Used cars especially need to be checked out prior to the winter months. Winter car safety is important for every car on the road. Traveling in winter can be safe if simple but thorough precautions are taken. In doing so, youre helping to save your life, and potentially, the lives of others.
The Big Lot - Car Credit, Inc.
BigLotCars.com
