Preparing Your Car For The Upcoming Winter

Preparing your car for the upcoming winter is smart as it helps ensure its safety, reliability, and comfort during the colder months, which typically create more hazardous driving conditions. The QuoteSavant in Frisco, TX offers this guidance about the importance of preparing your car for the changing seasons.

Winterizing your Car — An Essential Checklist  

In addition to keeping your gas tank a minimum of half-full (as this prevents moisture in the tank), consider these tips for winterizing your car —

Use Winter Tires

if you live in an area with cold temperatures, snow, or icy conditions, winter/snow tires are designed to provide improved handling/traction. Carry snow chains in snow-prone areas.  

Replace

• Engine Oil: use a lower-viscosity oil that is designed for colder temps.
• Wiper Blades/Washer Fluid: Replace worn-out blades and fill them with winter-grade fluid.

Check

• Antifreeze: Make sure the engine coolant has the proper levels to avoid freezing.  
• Brakes: Properly functioning brakes are vital for safe winter driving.
• Lights: Ensure all exterior lights are working.
• Battery: Cold weather can be brutal on a car’s battery, so replace it if it is old or shows signs of weakening. Consider the free battery testing available at auto parts stores.
• Heater/Defroster: essential for visibility and warmth during colder months.
• Belts/Hoses: Inspect the belts/hoses and replace them when needed.
• Spare Tire: Make sure your spare is in working condition and properly inflated.

Keep the following in the car-

• An ice scraper/snow brush to clear snow/ice.
• An emergency kit—
  • A flashlight.
  • A first-aid kit.
  • Blankets.
  • Extra clothing.
  • Non-perishable food.
  • Water.
  • A snow shovel.
  • A flashlight.
  • A first-aid kit.
  • Blankets.
  • Extra clothing.
  • Non-perishable food.
  • Water.
  • A snow shovel.
  • A flashlight.
  • A first-aid kit.
  • Blankets.
  • Extra clothing.
  • Non-perishable food.
  • Water.
  • A snow shovel.

Contact a Leading Frisco, TX Insurance Company Today

For additional information on protecting your car all year round, contact the QuoteSavant today.