As we are halfway through my 30th "winter" in the automobile business, I decide to put pen to paper (so to speak) and offer some advise regarding your car... and the winter weather!
Winter can be a dangerous time for even the best drivers. We've seen it and we've tried to avoid it.
It’s hard enough dealing with freezing temperatures, inconvenient snowfall, and icy roads. But many drivers forget that their vehicles need extra TLC during the winter months too.
Without proper maintenance, your vehicle could sustain long term damage or, even worse, be ill-equipped for the treacherous roads you drive it on. I don’t take these kinds of chances with my vehicle, and neither should you.
Fortunately, you don’t need a mechanic to keep you and your vehicle safe, but they are here to help should you need "backup!"
Here are 5 simple maintenance tips to help you brave anything winter throws at you:
- Make sure your tires are ready for winter
When you’re driving on slippery roads, your tires need to work extra hard.
If you have noticed that you seem to be slipping and sliding a bit more, you have to remember that those tires are not new anymore.
A worn-out set of tires will have a hard time finding traction, which means you run a higher risk of losing control on the road.
This is dangerous for the other drivers around you as well, so don’t sleep on checking your tire tread.
New All Season or Snow tires are a huge help here, especially if you live here in Central New York where we tend to get harsh winters.
Now if you're not quite ready to spring for new tires, at least make sure your tires are in good condition. If you’re in doubt, our Subaru/Nissan dealership here in Cortland will be happy to give you helpful advice on your tires.
- Check your tire pressure
Even if you bought a brand new set of tires or even a vehicle, this winter, you should still check the air in them once the temperature drops.
Tires are prone to losing air for every 10 degrees the temperature changes, and what is winter if not weeks of unpredictable weather?
Seize any moment you can to make sure your tires have the recommended amount of air in them, after all, just a small change in pressure can trigger the TPMS or Tire Pressure Monitoring System LIGHT on the dash.
Once again.. our Subaru/Nissan dealerships here in Cortland can help you keep the pressure.. EZ!
- Check your windshield wipers and headlights
It’s easy to take windshield wipers and headlights for granted. We use them so frequently that we forget that they get worn out or damaged too.
And trust me, when you’re driving through snow, your windshield wipers and headlights are essential for maintaining visibility and that means safety!
If your windshield wipers are exhibiting any weird behavior, or it’s been over a year since you installed them, consider getting some replacements so that when you need them... they are working their best for you.
- Carry emergency supplies
As the saying goes, “hope for the best but prepare for the worst.”
We can take precautions to prevent accidents on the road, but emergencies can happen to anyone. If that moment ever comes, you’ll be happy to be properly prepared for yourself, and your family.
For the winter, I recommend keeping at least bottles of water and a warm blanket in your vehicle to keep you safe until help arrives.
A first aid kit is also essential, whether it’s winter or the middle of summer. And if you really want to prepare for the worst, consider buying a rescue escape tool to help you get out of your vehicle in a life-or-death situation.
Regardless of how much you want to keep in your car, any preparation is better than no preparation at all.
And not just your car, but the cars of your family. Your spouse and children.
- Wash your vehicle
Snowy roads are treated with salt to improve traction, but you’ll be kicking up all that salt into the underside of your vehicle when you drive on it.
If left unchecked, this salt can eat away at your vehicle and cause rust and that can effect safety systems and more.
This can take years off your car’s total lifespan, or even thousands of dollars off its resale value.
No one wants a rusty vehicle, and you shouldn’t either. By regularly washing your vehicle during the winter, you can skirt this issue entirely and be sure that your vehicle is ready for the road...and your safety!
If you’d like to know more about optimizing your vehicle for winter, give me a call or send me a message.
Everyone’s vehicle is different, and I want to give you the best advice tailored to your situation so that your vehicle runs well for years to come.
"Uncle" Bill OGorman 607-543-1215
The Royal Auto Group - Royal Nissan of Cortland - Royal Subaru - 3901 Rte 281, Cortland NY
