No matter what time of the year it is, you will need a mode of transportation to navigate to your destination. Some people prefer walking, biking, or taking the bus. However, a majority of people are drivers and use a vehicle to travel from place to place.
If you use a vehicle to get around, driving in the winter will be vastly different from driving in the summer. There are potential snowstorms, icy roads, and freezing conditions that make driving more difficult. As a result, you should make all the stops to winterize your car, both externally and internally. Once you winterize your vehicle, you will be able to drive even in the harshest conditions safely.
Here is how you can prepare your car for the winter season:
Table of Contents
Internal Deep Clean
You should take the time to clean out your car whenever possible, preferably on good weather days. In the winter season, start by cleaning the exterior of your vehicle. Afterward, the internal areas of the vehicle should also be subject to deep cleaning.
Vacuum all the carpets inside the car and give your dashboards a clean sweep. Make sure that areas, such as the floor mats, are switched out for a more weather-proof alternative. Your trunk should also be clear to make room for winter-related accessories. These can include tools, such as a shovel for example.
Headlights
There will be a ton of components in your car that are more critical to have in working order than others. The lights in your car are one of those aspects, and they need to be in good condition. This is especially true for driving in the winter, as there will be an abundance of risks present. Start by checking out the headlights and taillights.
You can conduct a preliminary test by turning them off and on to check their status. Be sure to clean the lights if dirt and grime are impeding your view. Having the right fluids inside and warming capacities will ensure that frozen headlights aren’t possible!
Winter Tires
One of the most important aspects of any winter preparation routine has to do with the tires installed. If you drive seasonal tires, be sure to take them off well before the winter season approaches. Driving on an icy road with these tires increases the chances of an unwarranted accident occurring.
Moreover, there are a ton of ways in which you can get these tires installed. There is always the do-it-yourself method, in which you conduct the activity in your garage, for instance. Or, you can get a professional to do it for you to ensure nothing is overlooked during installation. Safe traction on the road is guaranteed once the snow comes around.
Winter Tools
On some days, you may forget to have your winter tools in close proximity, such as keeping them on your porch. As a result, keeping your truck clear for storage purposes will then be important. The tools you use here can be for various purposes, but ensure that the ones for your car are present.
For example, keep your snow brush, a set of gloves, and an ice scraper inside at virtually all times. You never know when the next winter storm will arrive, which can put the car in a precarious situation. In some cases, an extra set of jumper cables will be essential as well.
Fix The Cracks
Many car owners may forego choosing to fix the minor details in the vehicle for multiple reasons. However, you’ll want to do this as soon as possible, before the winter arrives. The smallest of cracks, under pressure from the winter, can become a much larger issue!
Test The Battery
The battery in your car is one of the most critical components of your car. As a result, you’ll have to conduct a test to verify if it is in good working order. If it is lacking, you may need a professional to switch it out for you.
The Windshield
Your windshield is especially vulnerable to the winter elements, as all it takes is a small freeze for things to go awry. Be sure to have enough fluid in your car, so that the wipers continue to work. Otherwise, the wipers should be replaced if necessary.
Lubricate Locks
Your locks on the car should also be lubricated when possible to prevent them from freezing. That way, they’ll be less likely to leave you in a harrowing situation on a snowy day. By keeping all of these winter tips in mind, you’ll be good to go!
Read also: How to Change the Battery in a Nissan Key Fob