Winter can certainly present significant challenges to your everyday life. Harsh weather conditions combined with frigidly cold temperatures can reek havoc on both your home and your vehicles. If you want to make sure your car and your wallet are both protected, pay attention to these tips:
- Tires – Good tires are extremely important when you’re on the road. If your tires have little to no tread left on them, you are leaving yourself at risk of a potentially serious injury from a car crash, not to mention hurting other drives in an accident. Depending on the circumstances, that insurance claim may leave you footing some of the bill out of your own pocket. Additionally, having tires with little to no tread leaves you in danger of hydroplaning when it rains.
If you are in need of new tires, get replacements before it snows. Snow, ice, and slush can present dangers on the roadways. Snow tires are best if you live in an area where snow is frequent. Also, keep an eye on your tire’s pressure. Tire pressure tends to fluctuate when temperatures change. Having proper tire pressure can also help you save money at the gas pump.
- Wipers – Having properly functioning windshield wipers is essential to keep you and your loved ones safe when you’re behind the wheel. Torn wipers can cause serious visibility issues. Contour blades work best that have a metal blade in them. Consider changing your wipers to winter wipers, so that you’re in the best position possible to stay safe in harsh weather conditions.
- Winter windshield washer fluid – Winter washer fluid is better able to tolerate colder temperatures in order to prevent freezing. Warm-weather fluid doesn’t have the ability to handle the colder temperatures, thus being at risk of freezing and cracking. Inspect your windshield for any chips or cracks as well. When temperatures drop, any small chip or crack can become much worse. It’s better to fix these problems sooner rather than later to protect your wallet.
- Don’t forget the basics – Routine maintenance such as oil changes and tire checks and rotations are of paramount importance. Any cabin air filters or engine air filters that are dirty should be replaced immediately.
- Clean windows and mirrors – Having good visibility is extremely important when you’re behind the wheel. Not only are you able to see what’s in front of you, but you can see what’s around and behind you as well. Your windows and mirrors need to be clean. If you have any advanced safety systems in your car, keep them free from snow and mud to ensure all cameras and sensors are working properly. If areas around your car freeze, you are leaving yourself at risk of blockages and buildup, thus potentially allowing water to come into your car. If this happens, you’re looking at a messy and potentially expensive situation.
- Alignment – In ordered for your advanced safety systems to operate correctly, your vehicle needs proper alignment.