How to Winterize Your Vehicle
Winter is officially here, and winterizing your vehicle is one of the best things you can do to prepare for the oncoming snow, ice, and slush. Whether it’s taking some small steps or scheduling winter maintenance for your vehicle, winterizing can ensure the safety of you and your passengers when driving in wintry conditions. Schedule winter service at Ray CDJR, your Fox Lake car dealer, now!
Keep an Emergency Kit in Your Vehicle
There are some basic things you can stock your vehicle with that will make winter weather driving easier and safer. To deal with snow and ice, you should always have an ice scrape at the very least, and a snow shovel, a broom, and abrasive material (sand or kitty litter) will be helpful in case your vehicle gets stuck in the snow. In general, but especially in the winter, it’s always a good idea to have jumper cables, a flashlight, and some warning devices like flares and emergency markers. Finally, keep a stash of personal safety items specifically for the winter: blankets or extra clothing for protection from the cold, a phone charger, water, food, and any necessary medicine.
Replace or Refill Your Vehicle’s Fluids
Because fluids, like wiper fluid, tend to be used quicker in the winter, you should replace or refill them as soon as possible. It’s important to have the correct antifreeze/water mixture to prevent fluid from freezing in your radiator, so replacing your vehicle’s coolant is key to safe driving. Replacing oil is also important as some mechanics recommend switching to a thinner oil if you live where temperatures drop below freezing.
Install Snow Tires
Winter tires offer unique protections that other tires, including all-season tires, do not. They feature deeper grooves and irregular edges to optimize the tire’s grip in snow, sleet, rain, and ice. Further, all-season tires are made for wet and dry conditions, meaning it will begin to stiffen and reduce traction in low temperatures. Winter tires have rubber made to remain flexible and soft even in cold temperatures, allowing you better tractions and control on the road. Changing tires can be tricky, so it is recommended that you get them installed professionally.
Get Your Battery Checked
In addition to your engine, your battery may die in the winter. Cold temperatures reduce your vehicle’s battery capacity, making it more susceptible to dying out. One of the most important winter vehicle tips is to get your vehicle’s battery checked at a service center. You should also do a regular thorough inspection of your battery, cables, terminals, and fluid.
Schedule Service Now!
Looking for a Jeep dealer near me? Look no further! Ray Chrysler Dodge Jeep Ram is your destination for winter service, as well as new and used Jeeps for sale. Our service department near Chicagoland has certified technicians to handle all your repair and maintenance needs. We provide oil changes, tire rotations, flat repairs, and general tune-ups. Our friendly and knowledgeable staff will be glad to lend a hand. Our auto service and repair center in Fox Lake is your one-stop solution. Schedule your winter maintenance now!
