Prepare Your Vehicle For Extreme Winter Weather

Winters might be the worst season when it comes to driving. The amount of snow and ice that can fall in a short amount of time, especially in the New York area, creates hazardous conditions that can easily take a driver by surprise.

Being a safe winter driver who can handle icy roads and blinding snow, is one way to avoid trouble. But in order to be truly safe, you may need to prepare your vehicle to specifically handle extreme winter weather.

Winter Maintenance Tips

To make sure your vehicle is prepared for the worst, you should:

• Service your car. Have a technician do routine maintenance on things like your car’s battery, cooling system, brakes, belts and hoses, and wire cables.
• Switch from all-weather to winter tires.  All-weather tires are designed to meet year-round weather challenges, while winter tires have treads specifically for winter especially for snow.
• Maintain good tire pressure. Low temperatures can cause the air pressure of your tires to decrease. Ensure the appropriate tire pressure for your car, and check regularly that it is correct.
• Install winter windshield wipers. These are made with rubber that will stop ice from collecting on your wiper blades. (Be sure you remove them when winter ends).
• Replace your wiper fluid often.  If you’re unsure if your fluid is the right formula for low temperatures, add a bottle of washer fluid antifreeze to the reservoir.
• Carry a winter safety kit. Store common tools and supplies in your car, in case of an emergency during winter travel.
• Don’t let your gas tank fall below half full. You never know when you may have to pull over in unsafe conditions, or even use your car’s engine to keep you warm.
• Ensure both window defrosters are always in working order. Winter weather can cause condensation on your windows; check that you can use your defrosters before driving.