Trolling Towing has put together a quick and dirty guide to preparing your car for winter. We’ve already snow this year but it’s not too late to circle back and take care of things!
Winter Survival Kit.
Once the temperature hits the drop button, it would be prudent that you include a survival kit in your car. Items such as snow scrappers, shovel and salt for defrosting will definitely come in handy. A bag of sand would also do you good in increasing the traction of your car. Even though it isn’t winter-specific, you should make sure you have a pair of jumper cables (and that you know how to use them).
Check Your Tires
For every ten degrees drop in temperature, your tire loses about a pound of pressure. It’s imperative that the tire pressure is checked to ensure the optimum maneuverability of your car during the winter period.
Colorado State laws require one’s tires to have a minimum of an eighth inch of tread, all-weather tires marked M/s (mud and snow) and a traction device for at least two tires. Unwillingness to comply will lead to a penalty of $650.
Simply test your tires by placing a quarter, upside down in-between your tire treads. If the treads cover George Washington’s head, you’re good to go. Otherwise, it would be advisable to get another new set of tires.
Fluids and Batteries
The cold weather has a tendency to sap out the battery power. Cold weather between 30-32 degrees centigrade lowers the battery’s efficiency to around 30-60%. Which is why one of the most common calls we get during winter is for our jump start service.
Confirming your anti-freeze is made specifically for winter conditions is also important for your car’s protection. Making sure your antifreeze is 50 parts water to 50 parts antifreeze and topped up to the required standards will ensure you have less stressful winter drive.
Having a non-freeze windshield washer ensures that no gunk forms during normal winter drive. Water-based windshield washers would definitely freeze causing cloudy windshield.
Check Your Brakes
Making sure the brake fluid levels are at the recommended level and brake pads are not worn out ensures maximum and ample stoppage time. During winter, the stoppage time is known to be almost six times while driving in normal conditions.
Clearing Existing Accumulation of Ice and Snow
It’s illegal in some states to drive with accumulated snow on the vehicle. Scrap off existing snow before embarking on a drive as a courtesy call to other drivers. This reduces chances of accidents to other drivers who would step on falling ice from your car resulting in skidding.
Slow Acceleration and Ample Space
Limit your confidence in snowy conditions. While driving on snowy grounds, reducing your acceleration would decrease the chances of skidding. Minimizing immediate inputs on the brakes and throttle will also deter skidding. Creating a good space allowance between you and the next car ensures ample breaking time in case of emergencies and minimal car damages.
Concentration
Give the road the undivided attention it deserves. This is not the time to talk text or update your Instagram. If hard to comply with some of the rules stated herein, make sure you abide by this and take it to heart.
Need Help?
Even with the best preparation you may still run into problems on the road this year. Whether it’s getting stuck in the snow, a dead battery or a total breakdown our complete roadside assistance service is only one phone call away.
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