Winter driving has many hazards to prepare for. Slick roads demand a slower pace and more distance between cars. Snow-packed roads call for winter tires and snow chains. You may even want to keep equipment in your car to stay warm and dry if you get stuck in a snow bank. Your costs to winterize a car will vary based on where you live, what equipment you need and what type of car you have. Here are some suggestions on how to get your car ready for winter.
Where to Buy Snow Chains
Tire snow chains fit on your car’s tires to provide maximum traction when driving on snow-packed roads. You shouldn’t use tire chains on clear roads. Shop for tire chains at AutoZone based on the size of your tires. Once you get your chains, learn how to put them on and take them off at home before you need them on the road. You want to be confident when you need your tire chains and it’s freezing cold outside.
Winter Tires at Competitive Prices
Depending on where you live, you may want to consider winter tires for your vehicle. Winter tires are designed for the cold, especially prolonged exposure to lower temperatures. In colder weather, tires can lose air pressure, leading to underinflation. This can make your car harder to handle on snowy or icy roads. You should check your tire tread before you drive in bad weather. If it’s looking thin, invest in new tires before you get stranded. You’ll want to check your tire pressure at least once a month through the winter. Refill as necessary.
Tips For Winterizing Your Car
Before the winter season, get your car into the mechanic’s shop for maintenance. You want your car to be in the best working order for the cold temperatures. Check the auto battery, windshield wipers and all the fluids. Don’t forget to find your ice scraper before you need it.
Put winter equipment into your car. You may want to have a shovel and a bag of sand or kitty litter to help you get unstuck. A blanket and winter gear for staying warm if you are stranded are good emergency items. Include an extra pair of gloves in case your regular pair gets wet. Stash a few protein bars with a few bottles of water. Flares, a flashlight with extra batteries and a first aid kit should always be in your trunk.
It’s recommended to keep your gas tank half full in the winter. It’s better to stop more often to keep it filled than to run out of gas when you’re stranded. But a full gas tank reduces condensation, preventing your gas line from freezing.
Brush up on winter driving tips. You may need to remember how to get out of a skid or how to drive uphill or downhill. Driving slower in wintry conditions can get you to your destination while preventing accidents.
Get ready for the winter season. Stay safe when you’re driving. Shop for winter accessories for your car with AutoZone.