5 Ways to Prepare your Vehicle for Winter

From Fall leaves and temperatures dropping causing slick roadways to windshields getting covered with fog and frost. The farther into Winter we go, the more magnified these challenges will become. With that in mind, here are 5 ways to prepare your vehicle for winter.

For those of us who call Delaware home, we know the weather can change on a dime. One moment we’re seeing temps in the 70’s, and the next day they’re in the 40’s. With Winter approaching fast, remember that hazards are everywhere. 

From Fall leaves and temperatures dropping causing slick roadways to windshields getting covered with fog and frost. The farther into Winter we go, the more magnified these challenges will become. With that in mind, here are 5 ways to prepare your vehicle for winter. 

1. Winterize your vehicle: Don’t wait until Old Man Winter causes severe and/or costly repairs to your vehicle. Cold temperatures could worsen pre-existing engine problems. Old Anti-Freeze is a leading cause of Engine problems in the winter. Be sure to check the condition of your Anti-Freeze, along with all belts and hoses.
2.  Tires: As leaves and snow begin to fall, our roads can become like skating rinks. Tire condition is crucial for late Fall and Winter vehicle safety. Proper tread depth keeps you
   out of ditches and prevents slipping and sliding. Proper Tire Inflation is vital for safety. Pressure that is too Low or High causes uneven weight distribution, decreasing the traction of your tires. Please make sure to have your tires checked for your safety as well as the safety of other travelers.
3. Windshield Wipers: Dry, worn wipers can be a huge safety factor. Get them changed!!! This is not expensive, but an accident caused by poor vision is expensive. Are your wipers relatively new but skipping and making noise? Even if your wipers are almost new, if they are squeaking or skipping,  a slight adjustment of your wiper arms can be a simple and inexpensive fix.
4. HVAC System: A working heating system obviously makes the drive more comfortable, but it’s also vital in keeping you safe. Defrosters (front and rear) clear the fog and/or frost, improving your vision. A clogged cabin air filter can greatly reduce the air flow from your vent. This causes less warm air to be expelled onto your windshield, leading to little circles of clarity instead of a completely clear windshield. Having your coolant topped off can also help keep you warmer during your commute.
5. Battery/Charging System: There is NOTHING worse than going out to your vehicle and discovering it doesn’t crank. This is dangerous and can get relatively expensive, especially if you need your vehicle towed. Let’s have your battery and charging system tested, increasing your comfort and safety, while keeping your wallet in mind. 

Hopefully your takeaways are that many of the costly, safety-related challenges that can accompany the changing seasons can be minimized.

Time is money, and we know your time is valuable.  Maybe you need to get your family to school safely, maybe you need to help your older relative make it to the store or a doctor’s appointment. Whatever your schedule, let’s make sure you’re not left out in the cold. Please bring your vehicle in so we can check these 5 ways to prepare your vehicle for winter. In the long run it saves not only your dollar, time, & safety but someone else’s too!