How Do I Get My Car Ready For Winter?

As you’re pulling out your winter clothes, you might ready your car for winter too. The cold, snow and ice can take a toll on your auto, but some TLC will help ensure it’s there for you when you need it. For example:

Keep it fluid. Use windshield wiper fluid that is optimal for winter weather. Also check the wipers to make sure they’re in good working order.

Tread carefully. Check your tires’ tread; deep tread will help your car grip snow-covered roads. Treads less than 2/32 of an inch should be replaced. Also check tire pressure, as it’s more likely to drop in cooler weather.

Battery barometer. It’s good to test your battery, as like tire pressure, it can lose power when it’s cold. The last thing you want when you’re out is to return to a car with a dead battery.

Cool it with anti-freeze. The coolant in your car in winter should be mixed with an anti-freeze/distilled water 50-50 blend. This will keep the radiator from freezing and the car running normally.

A tank half full. Keeping gas in the tank will help prevent gas line freeze. It’s a good practice to leave at least a half of a tank filled at all times.

Stow before you go. Before you set out on a winter road trip, be sure to pack some basic supplies for emergencies. These can include ice scraper, shovel, jumper cables, road salt or sand, first aid kit, flashlight and batteries, emergency tire repair, cell phone and charger, and blankets.

Lastly, for extra protection, there’s Roadside Assistance. It provides 24/7 towing assistance, flat tire service, battery jumpstart and more. Your independent agent can add it to your auto policy at any time.

Contact us for all of your insurance needs! 

Illinois and Wisconsin residents, at R Hobbs Insurance Agency, we can work with you to make sure you’ve got the coverage you need, while at the same time using all possible credits and discounts to make that coverage affordable. Just give us a call at (847) 680-0888 or send us a note at [email protected]. We want to help you meet your goals, and make sure what’s important to you is protected!

 Content source: Kemper