The holiday season is rapidly approaching again. With everything you have to do: decorating, shopping, wrapping, planning, cooking (I could go on, but you get the picture), it's easy to forget that Minnesota winters are not particularly kind to your vehicle. Here are a few tips to make sure your car is ready for whatever Old Man Winter can throw at it...
-Test your battery frequently. Proper voltage will help start your car, even in the coldest of temperatures.
-Check your antifreeze/coolant levels. Proper antifreeze mixtures will prevent fluids in your radiator and hoses from freezing and expanding and potentially cracking engine components.
-Check tire pressure and tread depth. Sudden drops in temperature can greatly affect tire pressure levels. Improper tire inflation will not provide the highest potential traction. Also, bald tires limit your traction, so keep an eye on your tread depth. If you use performance tires for summer driving, swapping them for winter tires will help greatly as well.
-Run a full tank of fuel. Rather than waiting for your fuel light to come on, fill up when you reach a half tank. If you are caught in the middle of a snow storm, you may become stranded. Make sure the best source of heat you have, your car's engine, has the fuel it needs to run for a long period of time in case of emergency.
Keep an emergency kit in your car. Try to include a flashlight with working batteries, blankets, hat and gloves, boots, jumper cables, an ice scraper, a small shovel, a few high energy food sources like candy bars or energy bars, and some kitty litter for traction. Who thought kitty litter could save your life?
These are just a few ideas to help keep you safe on the road this winter. Remember, if you treat your car right, it will help you out when you really need it!
Before I log out, I want to wish everyone a very happy holiday season and a safe new year!
-Chris Stumvoll
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