Whether you drive as part of your job or only to and from work, winter weather conditions provide a challenge for even the most seasoned driver. Thats why its important to prepare ahead for icy or snowy weather. Before You Start: Make sure you go over your car before winter. Check your battery clamps for corrosion-a frequent cause of not starting in cold weather. Brakes should be checked and adjusted as necessary. Wipers should be in good working order. If they start to skip or streak, replace them. Be sure you have plenty of wiper fluid, and that it is adjusted for cold weather. Check to see that your heater, defroster, and rear window defogger are working properly. Add winter-weight motor oil if youre not already using all-season oil. Your radiator fluid should be good to 00 F or lower. Keep your gas tank half full for unexpected emergencies. This will also prevent your gas lines from freezing. Tires are of particular concern in snow or ice. All-season tires perform well under most weather conditions (even rain), but consider snow tires if you will be driving in deep snow. Studded tires are best suited for use on ice and in minimal amounts of snow. Check the air pressure often-cold weather can cause it to drop one pound per square inch for each 10 degree drop in temperature. If mountain driving in heavy snow is contemplated, use tire chains. Emergency Supplies To be fully prepared for emergencies, a winter driving kit should include the following: • Ice scraper, snow brush, and snow shovel • Booster cables, flashlight, and extra batteries • Warning devices such as flares or triangles • First-aid kit • Extra warm clothing and blankets • Bag of abrasive material such as sand, salt, or kitty litter • Traction mats • High-energy, nonperishable foods such as granola bars, nuts, raisins, and water • Good sunglasses to avoid the glare of snow and sunshine Winter driving video: youtube/watch?v=blECA9ioHj8
Posted on: Mon, 17 Nov 2014 17:24:23 +0000
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