Tips for avoiding costly
weather-related repairs
When you think of winter,
you might daydream about skiing, sledding, holidays and snowmen. But before you
start jumping into all the fun, make sure your vehicles are able to
take on the demands of harsh weather.
Make Your Car Roadworthy
Get your car into an auto mechanic for
a top-to-bottom checkup that includes:
- Brakes. Brake pads and rotors should be checked for warping, cracking or excessive wear.
- Coolant system. Have your radiator pressure tested and hoses checked for cracks or bulges that could cause the system to fail.
- Tires. Ask your local tire retailer to assess your tires’ integrity and replace if needed. At the very least, you should have your tires rotated to help them wear evenly. If you’re able to afford special winter tires, make the investment. Winter tires are made with low temperature-resilient rubber and have deeper treads that do a better job of gripping snow and ice.
- Windshield wipers. If your blades are more than a year old, they’re probably leaving a pattern of wear on your windshield and should be replaced.
What To Do In An Emergency
Stranded on the side of the road is a
dangerous and often frightening situation to be in. Carry these items in an
easy-to-reach tote in your back seat or trunk throughout the winter months to
help ensure your safety:
- heavy blanket
- jumper cables
- flashlight and spare batteries
- items to help you get “unstuck” from a snow bank: tire chains and/or sand (or cat litter), a small shovel, and a bag of salt to help melt snow and ice
- first-aid kit
- lightsticks or reflective triangles
- protein-rich snacks like energy bars
- extra hat, coat, boots and gloves
- ice scraper
A little effort to get your car in
tip-top shape will give you peace of mind as you set out on wintery roads, and
help eliminate the risk of a costly repair. More importantly, being practical
can help you stay safe!
