Photo credit: image by: di_the_huntress via Flickr

There is no question that snow, sleet and ice make for one hazardous driving season. To the prepared motorist, the perils of winter are significantly reduced. Here are 10 tips to readying your car for  dangerous winter driving.

1. Change the Windshield Washer Fluid

Having the appropriate windshield washer fluid is even more important in the winter because some formulas may not be viable in subzero temperatures.  What’s the big deal?  Well, if your fluid isn’t already completely frozen inside the reservoir under your hood, it will freeze instantly on your windshield when exposed to temperatures below the approved level. De-Icer fluids are available in stores and some can be good for up to -30°F!

2.  Have the Battery Tested

The freezing temperatures of winter can zap the power from your car’s battery, especially if it has been idle for a long period of time. National car part and service store, AutoZone, will test your car’s parts for free. Their staff can test your car’s battery, alternator, starter and voltage regulator- while they’re in your car!

3.  Put on Specialized Tires

Snow tires are a great way to increase acceleration, stopping ability and traction in snowy or icy conditions. For regions of the country with more snowfall and isolated roads, snow tires with studs on them may be available. Have your mechanic put snow tires on before the first snow and take them off after the last, most likely around early March.  Another plus? Using different tires in the winter will save the tread on your summer tires!

4. Protect Your Car- You Won’t Regret It!

If you are traveling in areas with high traffic, snowfall and/or ice, then your car could be exposed to thousands of pounds of salt this winter. Salt can erode a car’s exterior and cause unsightly rust. While rust may seem like a small problem, when it spreads to the underside of your car, it can corrode holes on vital parts, such as your gas line. Car detailing chain stores, like Ziebart, offer spray protection for both the underbody and exterior.

5.  Get the 4-1-1 on 4-wheel drive

There is no doubt that four-wheel drive is one feature that can come in handy this winter. This feature is another way to increase control while braking and help with vehicle handling and acceleration in snowy and icy conditions. Knowing when to use four-wheel drive is one way to keep money in your wallet this winter! Four-wheel drive significantly reduces your car’s fuel efficiency and can lower gas mileage. Make sure that every member of the family (who’s old enough to drive, of course) knows when and when not to use it.

6. Top off the Anti-freeze

Anti-freeze, also known as coolant, is an important part of a winter maintenance routine. Antifreeze is found in your car’s radiator where it keeps the water in the radiator from freezing in subzero temperatures.  Take caution, as this is one step not suited for the garage. Antifreeze is highly toxic and can cause severe damage or death if accidentally ingested. This sweet, clear substance is almost undetectable and discharge on the ground can lead to groundwater contamination. Leave this one up to your mechanic!

7. Pack for You

No matter how many precautions you take, you are still at a risk for an accident in the winter’s harsh elements. Sliding off a lightly traveled road can land you right in the middle of a dangerous situation. Having these supplies ready can help you be safe and prepared in your travels:

• Flares
• Blankets
• Boots
• Radio
• Non-Perishable Food
• Flashlight

8. Pack for Your Car

Now that you are prepared for the perils of winter, it’s time to make sure you pack what you need for your car.

• Scraper to clear car windows. Window scrapers should have a brush on one end to clear loose snow and also be long enough to reach over the top of your car.
• Spare tire with air in it and tools to put the tire on your car
• Jumper cables
• Tow rope
• Duct tape- for those small roadside repairs
• Short shovel and maybe a bag of sand (putting sand down in front of a car stuck in snow can significantly increase traction and aid in getting the car out).

9.  Update the Headlights

Visibility is much more important in the winter as ice and snow make emergency braking extremely dangerous. The brighter your headlights are, the earlier an object can be spotted and avoided safely. Old, dim headlights can decrease visibility on the roads. Consider purchasing new headlights, but no need to go for the more expensive premium brands such as SilverStar Ultra. According to a study by Consumer Reports, these pricier bulbs have been proven to have little advantage over regular halogen lights.

10.  Invest in Peace of Mind

National roadside assistance programs, such as those offered by AAA Motor Club, provide towing services to their members 24 hours a day. These clubs also offer fuel delivery, should you run out of gas, roadside battery service and mechanical first-aid for your car.

What tips/tricks did we miss?  Let us know in the comments below!

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