Baby its getting cold outside! Last week we discussed preparing our home for winter, and now it’s time to start considering our cars. There’s is nothing more frightening than getting stranded in the cold because your car has a issue cause by inclement weather. Below are some seasonal car maintenance tips to help you prepare to make it through this winter unscathed.
Check the tread on your tires. Your cars ability to stop on slippery or wet surfaces decreases when the tread reaches 4/32”. A quick trick for measurement is to place a penny on the tire- adequate tread will cover part of Lincoln’s head. If you are seeing his whole “noggin” consider replacing your worn tires with all-weather tires for better tractions.
Change the windshield wipers. These 2 small devices keep your visibility clear by removing snow, ice, and debris from your windshield. To work properly they must be free of rips and wear.
Charge the battery. A battery full of juice will start your car no matter how low the temperature falls. Be sure that the terminals are clean and double check that it is secure under the hood. Always keep a pair of jumper cables in your trunk.
Check the fluids. Be sure the anti-freeze, windshield washer, transmission and brake fluids are topped off. Theses fluids keep your vehicle running (and stopping) smoothly.
Be sure your tank is full on long journeys. You don’t want to get stuck in traffic or a snow drift and run out of gas.
Keep a stocked emergency kit in your car. A few items to include are:
– Flares
– Flashlight with extra batteries
– Blanket
– A small shovel
– Ice scraper
– First aid kit.
Be sure your auto insurance is up to date and that your coverage is adequate for any incidents you may face this winter.
If you are not a member of an auto club, you can add towing and roadside assistance to your policy to use if your car is not drivable or even if you just need help with a jump start or tire change. If you have questions about your Home or Auto insurance coverage, call any of our FBinsure offices to speak to myself or anyone on our Sales Executive team. I can be reached by email at jkagiwada@fbinsure.com or by calling our main line at (508) 824-8666
