Tips for Safe Winter Driving

The winter driving season is upon us. The Midwest and Northeast have been pummeled by snowfalls, with mounds of snow being as much as ten inches high in some areas. Once the snow plows have come and made the roads passable, you’ve probably experienced cabin fever and are ready to venture out to get to work or to get to the grocery store and re-stock the pantry and refrigerator.

There are two critical components for safe winter driving: 1.) having your car properly serviced and made “winter-ready” and 2.) having a supply kit to keep you safe in case you are stranded in your vehicle for a prolonged period of time.

So, what are the steps that are very important to take to winterize your car and keep it safe for you and your family? Taylor and Sons Chevrolet can take care of these important details and make sure that when you head out on those winter roads that your car is in the proper condition to get you safely where you want to go.

Winterizing Your Vehicle

At Taylor and Sons, we will make sure your vehicle is ready, and safe, for the winter season ahead. We will:

• Have your oil changed and replace your 10w30 summer oil with 5w30 winter oil for cleaner starting and increased engine efficiency

• Increase the ratio of anti-freeze to water. In winter the mix should be 60% anti-freeze, 40% water. In very harsh, cold climates it should be a 70/30% ratio. Antifreeze will also protect the engine against rust and corrosion.

• Have your battery checked. Once the cold weather hits, we’ve all seen cars stranded on the side of the road. Often times they have a dead battery and must wait in the cold for a repair truck to arrive. Spare yourself this inconvenience by having your battery checked and make sure it will get you started on your way and keep you moving all winter long. No unexpected stops and delays for you.

• Change windshield wipers and washer fluid. It can be frustrating when that car if front of you is throwing up slush and dirty water from their tires onto your windshield. Make sure you have new wipers to keep your windshield, and vision, clear to safely see the road ahead. You’ll also want a wiper fluid that won’t freeze in the winter and that will be available when you need it.

• Have your car tuned up. Driving in snow and ice can be taxing on the engine. Be sure your car is tuned up and is running at maximum efficiency to pull you through the elements when you need that extra bit of power from your engine.

• Check your defroster and heater. This is a simple one that many people overlook. Your defroster is very important to make sure you have a clear field of vision through your windshield; the heater is important for your comfort while driving, and if you get stuck. Have both tested and make sure they are in perfect working order.

• Have your tires checked. You need very good tread to pull you though snow and ice. Bald tires are unsafe and will only spin and get you nowhere when you are on ice or in heavier snow. Good tires will keep you moving and get you away from sheets of ice and heavy snow.

Let Taylor and Sons Chevrolet go through this checklist with you and help make sure you and your family will be safe this winter. Catastrophic breakdowns are preventable with the proper steps being taken to winterize your vehicle.

Your Winter Safety Driving Kit

No matter how well you prepare your vehicle, there may come a time when roads become unpassable and law enforcement stops you in your tracks as they work to make the roads safe for you to drive on. If that happens, you need to have some basic supplies on hand for your safety and comfort.

• A snow scraper and ice brush to keep your windshield clear

• A shovel, which may be needed to dig your wheels free of snow drifts

• Warm gloves and other winter clothing. It may be so cold that you’ll need to dress in layers.

• Blankets. You won’t be able to keep your car running the whole time you can’t move down the road. Have extra blankets to preserve body heat.

• Emergency flares. If you’re stranded on a remote road, setting off flares may get the attention of other motorists or law enforcement that can come and help you.

• A well-stocked first aid kit. This is good to have in your car year-round. You may need to apply first aid until help arrives.

• A flashlight. Be sure you check the batteries and carry extra with you.

• Jumper cables. Just in case you do have a battery problem, jumper cables can be a life-saver when someone comes along and offers to help.

• A cell phone charger. You may need to call for assistance or communicate with loved ones. It’s imperative that you have communications with the outside world. Make sure your cell phone is charged and ready to go when you head out. Have that charger with you just in case.

For additional winter driving adjustments, the Spokesman-Review offers some excellent advice on navigating tricky winter roads.

Be sure to make your appointment today with Taylor and Sons Chevrolet and be ready for the next round of storms, which can blow in any day. Winter is here; take time to be safe and be prepared.

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