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Winter Preparation

Driving conditions in Winder during the winter months can sometimes be tricky. We have seen a couple of harsh winters in our country over the last two years so make sure you and your vehicle are prepared. Take a little extra time to make sure your vehicle is ready for winter so you are not stuck out in the cold. Preventative measures to make sure your vehicle is ready for the elements can not only save you costly repair bills, but may also save your life in some cases.

Here is a helpful list of items to go over before the winter season kicks in:

BATTERY CHECK - Check to make sure your battery is fully charged and its expiration date is not approaching soon. Cold temperatures are harsh on batteries.
ANTI-FREEZE CHECK - Make sure you have an antifreeze that is not older then 2 years and can put up with drastic freezing temperatures.
HEATER CHECK - Make sure your heater is running properly and be sure to have your cabin air filter replaced
DEFROSTERS & WIPERS CHECK - Check your defrosters and wipers to make sure they work properly and you may consider winter wiper blades.
TIRES - Make sure you have adequate tread on your tires. Use a quarter by placing it in the grove of your tire's tread, with the President's head going in first. If you can see the very top of the president's head, then your tire's tread is not deep enough and its time for you to consider new tires. Also be sure to check your tire's pressure.
OIL CHECK - Dirty oil can be a big problem in winter. You may also want to consider a different weight of oil for colder days to help with starting you vehicle.
FILTERS CHECK - Make sure you have a new oil, fuel filter and transmission filter. Winter time is not the time to have these go bad.
BRAKE CHECK - It is essential to have properly working brakes in winter. Make sure your pads and rotors have good life in them to get you through the winter months.
EXHAUST CHECK - Have your exhaust checked for carbon monoxide leaks which can be dangerous during cold weather driving when windows are closed.
LIGHTS CHECK - Make sure that all your lights, hazard lights, blinkers and brake lights are working properly and that they are kept clear of snow and ice.
DE-ICER TRICK - Add a bottle of fuel deicer in your tank once a month to help keep moisture from freezing in the fuel line.
BELT CHECK - The condition and tightness of drive belts is very important. If you notice weathered or worn belts, be sure to get them replaced.
HOSE CHECK - Have your hoses inspected for leaks or cracks. Rubber hoses can fail faster in freezing temperatures.
WASHER FLUID CHECK - Make sure to stock up on windshield washer fluid. You will probably using a lot more during winter driving months.
TRANSMISSION CHECK - If your vehicle has 4 wheel or all wheel drive, make sure to check that it is working properly.
GAS TANK TIP- Keep your vehicle’s gas tank at least half-full to reduce the chances of moisture forming in the gas lines
SPARE TIRE CHECK - Be sure to check the tire pressure of your spare tire and that you have the proper tools to in your vehicle to replace a tire.
BE PREPARED - Stock your vehicle with a extra gloves, an ice scraper, jumper cables, flares, sand or kitty litter, flashlight, blanket, bottled water, and dry food. You may even consider stocking a pulling strap in case you need to be pulled out by another driver (if they do not have one handy).
COMMUNICATIONS CHECK - Make sure your cell phone is fully charged before making any long trips in winter, or keep a spare phone and charger in your vehicle
DRIVING TIPS - Be sure to brake sooner, give more room to vehicles in front of you, and use your signals when turning.

In Winder, it's better to be over prepared for the winter driving months, so make sure you follow these tips and recommendations above.