Prep your car for the winter season ahead!
As winter draws in, driving conditions are usually somewhere between tricky and treacherous. In short, the next couple of weeks are officially the worst to be on the road. With the low-sun glare, fog, high winds, torrential rains, snow, and ice on the horizon, the number of accidents is poised to soar throughout the months of November, December, and January. Fortunately, many accidents can be avoided with a bit of pre-planning and some regular car maintenance checks.
Be seen – Day or night, rain or fog, rain or snow – you’re going to need to have the best visibility on the road. You can increase this by checking that all of your exterior lights are working and cleaning your windscreen and windows now. Pay attention to the condition of your blades and replace them if they are wearing thin.
Check your Tires – Check the tire pressures at least once a week and before you set off on that long holiday journey. If they are wearing out or the tread is looking thin, be sure to get a new set of wheels before the winter hits.
Top it off – Your car needs certain fluids, such as antifreeze, oil, and gas to keep running through the winter. You should change the oil often and top up the anti-freeze for winter. If it has been a couple of years since the anti-freeze has been replaced, it is a good idea to flush it out and pour in new anti-freeze. Aim to keep your car’s tank of gas at least half full throughout the winter to reduce the risk of gas lines freezing.
Create an Emergency Kit – Even if your vehicle is kitted out for winter, there is still a chance that you will get stuck on the road in a snowstorm. Be ready for the worst by putting together an emergency kit. A kit should include a blanket or two, a flashlight, flare, first aid kit, ice scraper and brush, and a fully inflated spare tire.
While you prep your car for the winter, be sure that you have the right auto insurance for your needs before the season! Contact the professionals Gee Schussler Insurance Agency in Orland Park, Illinois to get started today.
