Winter is nearly here. Is your car ready for the ice, snow, and cold weather? It’s important to keep up with your auto repair all year long, but you definitely don’t want to deal with a breakdown in the winter. In our last post, we covered the first half of our winter auto repair checklist, but there are more important items to add to the list.
Here’s the second part of our winter auto repair checklist to ensure your car is ready for the cold weather.
Maintain Control on the Road
When driving on icy and slippery roads, you want to do everything you can to maintain control on the road. Check your brakes to ensure they are in good condition. Icy roads require reliable stopping power. If your vehicle has 4WD or AWD, make sure these systems are functioning properly. Consider carrying snow chains or traction aids for extra grip if you drive on steep hills or roads that are difficult to clear.
Be Prepared for an Emergency
You never know what might happen, so it’s best to be prepared. Carry a battery charger or jumper cables in your car in case your battery dies in the cold. You should also assemble an emergency kit. Include blankets, warm clothing, a flashlight, non-perishable food, and a first-aid kit in case you get stranded in cold conditions. And, of course, keep an ice scraper, snow brush, and a small shovel in your car to remove snow and ice.
Keep Up with Routine Maintenance
The best way to avoid disasters on the road is to keep up with routine maintenance. Ensure that your car is up to date on its regular maintenance schedule and address any existing issues or repairs before winter. Replace old wiper blades with winter blades designed to handle snow and ice. Top off your windshield washer fluid with one rated for low temperatures. Make sure all your exterior lights are working properly. Days are shorter in the winter, and visibility is crucial.
Year-Round Auto Repair from Silver Arrow Service
No matter the time of year, you can trust our team at Silver Arrow Service with all your auto repair needs. Our experienced technicians will ensure that your car is ready to handle anything a New England winter can throw at it.