Get Ready for Winter Driving!

Now that temperatures are starting to drop, it’s time to once again start thinking about operating your vehicle in the snow and ice. Winter driving is much different than summer driving, which means you need to take extra special care of your car and drive more carefully when you’re out on the road. Follow the advice below from an auto mechanic in Everett, WA to ensure that you’re safe and sound while you’re out and about this season:

• Visit a mechanic: Before you do anything else, take your car to a mechanic for an inspection and a tune-up. We’ll pore over every aspect of your vehicle to ensure that everything looks and functions as it should. During this inspection, we’ll also perform an oil change and give you less viscous oil that’ll perform better in low temperatures.
• Switch your tires: If you don’t already own a set of winter-weather tires, it’s time to consider buying some. Snow tires help ensure that your car stays on the road, even in the worst conditions. You won’t have to worry about slide-offs or skidding when slowing down if you have winter tires with deep tread. Talk to one of our mechanics about which winter tires will be best for your vehicle.
• Defroster and wipers: Obviously, visibility on the road is important 365 days of the year, but it’s especially critical in the winter, particularly during a snowstorm. If you can’t see when you’re out on the road, you’re a danger to yourself and all of the other drivers out there. One of the best ways to ensure good visibility is to make sure your defroster and windshield wipers are fully functional. Your defroster will keep your windshield nice and warm, and your wipers will clear any snow and ice from your windshield. A new set of windshield wipers isn’t very expensive, so go your the auto shop and buy some new ones today!
• Gas up: Nobody likes paying for gas, but now is the time of year to ensure that you always have a tank that’s at least three-quarters full. You never know when you might slide off the road and need to keep the car running to stay warm while you wait for help.
• Prepare for the worst: Slide-offs and accidents are much more common this time of year, especially on roads that haven’t been salted or plowed recently. Before you do anything else, we advise that you prepare yourself for these scary scenarios. Load up your car with things to keep you warm like blankets, extra gloves and scarves—you never know how long you might be stranded while waiting for help to arrive. Additionally, keep a set of road flares in your trunk to place on the road if you’re involved in an accident.

As mentioned above, be sure to bring your car to an auto mechanic in Everett, WA as soon as possible. Whether you need major repairs or a quick inspection, be sure to choose Auto Truck Service Inc. for all of your automotive needs this winter.

Categorised in: Vehicle Maintenance