We all know winter weather is bound to happen every year, yet we all find ourselves a little surprised and a little discouraged when the temperatures drop and that first snowfall appears. Many find themselves having to acclimate to the winter weather and all that comes along with it.

We have to remember to leave ourselves time to shovel the driveway before work, or pull the winter jackets out of storage. One important thing we could all use a yearly reminder about is winter car care. 

How we care for our cars is especially important in the winter. Snow, freezing temperatures, ice, and salt can all be very hard on our vehicles if we don’t properly care for them. We can all agree if there’s a time of year you don’t want to be stranded on the side of the road with a broken down car, it’s in the winter.

Take some time to read our winter car care tips to keep yourself and other drivers safe on the roads this winter.

Check your tires

When it comes to winter driving, your tires are one of the most important parts of your car to keep you safe. If you desire, you can purchase specific snow tires which are bigger and have more tread, making them better at gripping the road and maneuvering in ice and snow than regular tires. 

If snow tires aren’t an option for you, be sure to have your tire tread checked. If your tires are worn out, they aren’t going to be helpful when stopping on icy roads. 

Check your breaks

Along with tires, your breaks will be just as important to your safetty. Bring your car in to get your brakes checked before winter starts. Winter is not the time of year you want to have worn out or squeaking brakes. 

In addition to having your brakes checked, be sure you know how your car’s anti lock brake system works. This will protect you should you hit black ice or have to make any sudden stops. 

Monitor your fuel tank

In the cold temperatures it is important to not let your fuel tank go too low. It is recommended that you try to keep your fuel tank at least half full at all times. If you let your fuel levels get too low, they have a greater chance of freezing. 

Additionally, when the temperatures drop, you don’t want to run out of gas in the cold. 

Install fresh wipers

Windshield wipers are another item on your car that should be checked or refreshed for winter. If your wipers are old or worn out they won’t be effective in clearing your view when its snowing and wont help in removing ice from your windshield. 

Be sure to check your wiper fluid levels at the beginning of the season, as well. Both will be effective in helping your clear your windshield. 

Overall a well cared for car is going to result in a safer car for your travels this winter. Your safety and protection is always our top priority at Link-Hellmuth Insurance, which is why we help our clients find cheap car insurance around Springfield, Ohio. 

Purchasing car insurance is just another way you can care for and protect your car this winter season!