When it’s cold outside, your car can feel it too. If it’s tough enough for us to stay warm these days, think how our car feels sitting in a chilly garage or out on the driveway collecting ice.
So, how can we keep our vehicles in tip-top shape during inclement weather and sub-zero temperatures this winter? Here are a few tips:
Under the hood
Proper anti-freeze.
Check your car’s antifreeze level often and add more if needed. The coolant in your car in winter should be mixed with an anti-freeze/distilled water 50-50 blend. This will keep the radiator from freezing and keep your car running normally.
Battery barometer.
It’s good to test your battery, as like tire pressure, it can lose power when it’s cold. The last thing you want when you’re out is to return to a car with a dead battery
Driving safety
Windshield wise.
Make sure your vehicle’s windshield wipers are in good working order, and replace the wiper fluid with a winter mixture. If you’re getting water streaks or the blades’ rubber is cracked or stiff, it’s necessary to replace them promptly.
It’s also a good idea to use a brush and scraper to remove ice and snow instead of the wipers, which can overload the motor. Don’t pour water on your windshield to remove ice or snow. It can cause your windshield to shatter.
Be visible.
Check your headlights, tail lights and turn signals, replacing foggy or damaged lens covers to improve visibility. And for maximum effectiveness, keep snow off the lights.
When to replace your wipers
According to Napa, plan on replacing wiper blades at the very least once a year. In Wisconsin, consider switching to a set of winter blades. These durable windshield wipers aren’t prone to freezing up and can handle heavier snowfall.
On the road
Be prepared.
Load your car with a snow brush and ice scraper, shovel, tow chains or rope, sand or cat litter to help with tire traction before taking to the road.
Keep up the pressure.
Make sure your tires have good tread and enough air pressure. Replace worn tires and fill tires with pressure according to the manufacturer’s instructions.
Tread with care.
Check your tires’ tread; deep tread will help your car grip snow-covered roads. Treads less than 2/32 of an inch should be replaced. Also check tire pressure, as it’s more likely to drop in cooler weather.
Don’t forget
Don’t run on empty.
Keep your gas tank at least half full to prevent the fuel line from freezing.
Grease the locks.
To prevent door and trunk locks from freezing, use a silicone spray or lubricant meant for door locks. If a lock is already frozen, use a lock antifreeze. Don’t try hot water—the lock will just refreeze.
Take care.
Regularly check the heater, defroster, brakes, brake fluid, ignition, emergency flashers, exhaust and battery. Note that cold temperature reduces the battery’s power. Also, ensure you’re using the right oil for winter; engine oil can thicken in the cold, making it harder for the car to start.
Of course roadside assistance can be a major help in these types of situations, because after all, it is winter in Wisconsin, and it’s better to be safe than sorry.
Reach out to us today, and see if you have proper coverage in case of winter emergency!
Have A Question?
Call us today at: (920) 596-3355
Sandie (Sandra) Wilz is the owner and an agent at Eastling Insurance in Manawa, Wisconsin. She is passionate about educating clients and prospects on what their insurance coverages mean and how having the correct coverage can give the client the peace of mind they would expect from their insurance protection. Sandie can be reached at (920) 596-3355.