Get Your Car Winter Ready
If you live in a part of the world where snow tends to get measured in feet instead of inches, it’s a good idea to get your car ready for the winter season. In addition to equipping your vehicle with things that help it cope with the elements, it’s just as important to have some vital staples for the people diving or riding inside.
Cold weather can put a huge strain on a battery and, if you should happen to get stuck in the snow, you’ll want the peace of mind that comes with a battery that can start the car. Check your owner’s manual for information on how many cold cranking amps you need or check at your local auto parts store. Check the battery post terminals and remove any of the corrosive buildup that tends to build up over time.
If you do the majority of your winter driving in a place that averages more than two feet of snow per season, it’s imperative to have tires made for coping with snow. If you live in an area that gets less snow but sometimes gets an above average accumulation or two, you can more than likely get by with all season tires. The critical factor is making sure you have adequate tread no matter the style of tire.
You can buy pre assembled kits or, you can put one together yourself. You should have; a set of jumper cables, basic hand tools like pliers, screwdrivers, a hammer and an adjustable wrench. Carry a bag of kitty litter to provide traction when the vehicle is stuck in snow and, if you have a rear wheel vehicle, it will provide weight for better traction on slick surfaces.
If you routinely travel through rural areas or long stretches of interstate highways during the winter months, it’s a good idea to have an emergency stash of food and water at your disposal. Have a gallon jug of water on hand and some foods like granola or trail bars, dehydrated fruits, nuts and some dark chocolate. Put the food in a part of the car that’s not too convenient to reach so you won’t be tempted to eat it when there’s not an emergency. If you should find yourself stranded, eat and drink sparingly because it might take a long time before you can proceed on your way or get rescued.
