How to Prepare Your Car and Drive Safely in Winter

winter driving

When winter comes around, the last thing you want to think about is your car and what you can do to ensure that it doesn’t get in the way of your driving this year. You’d much rather plan those winter getaways and cozy nights spent at home with the heater on full blast—but if you don’t properly prepare your car before winter begins, you may have to put those plans on hold until next year. Thankfully, keeping your car safe and warm in winter isn’t as difficult as it sounds if you follow these tips

 

Test your Brakes

When winter weather hits, it’s important to test your brakes. The cold temperatures can affect how they function and make it harder for you to stop your vehicle when needed. Find a flat parking lot or road with little traffic and apply pressure slowly, allowing yourself plenty of time to come to a complete stop. Make sure they’re working smoothly before hitting the road! Make great road trip and enjoy real money casino inside your car.

 

Take Time Before Setting Out

Before driving your car, check if it’s ready for winter driving conditions. Make sure everything is properly maintained, from tire pressure and tread depth to fluid levels (especially windshield wiper fluid) and battery charge. Keeping up with regular maintenance will save you a lot of headaches later on.

 

Test Your Windshield Wiper Blades

Your wipers should be replaced about once a year. Make sure you remove any accumulated ice and snow from your blades before heading out. If they’re covered with ice, have them replaced—they’re likely not functioning properly. When you wipe down your windshield, look for streaks left by worn-out blades. A good rule of thumb: if you can see your reflection in a streak, it’s time for new ones!

 

Use High-beam Headlights only when Necessary

It’s easy to forget that high beams should be used only when absolutely necessary. In fact, your vehicle’s owner’s manual will include a specific list of conditions that are appropriate for using your high beams. Pay attention and drive safely by remembering one thing: High-beam headlights can temporarily blind other drivers. Make sure you use them only when necessary—on dark roads or at night—and avoid blinding other motorists with them.

 

Give yourself more Space Between Cars when Driving

In winter, cars have a higher stopping distance since roads are icy. If someone cuts you off or makes an unexpected turn, give yourself more space between your car and others. A good rule of thumb is one car length for every 10 miles per hour you’re driving (so at 20 mph, leave at least two car lengths between you).  If you bored with long journey you can enjoy your time here https://www.bestusacasinosites.com/casino-games/.

 

Keep a Shovel, Bag of Sand or Kitty Litter in your Car at all Times

As you’re driving, there will often be unexpected patches of ice or snow that can cause your vehicle to lose traction. It’s best not to rely on someone else’s help with this; it could take a long time before anyone passes by who can assist you. Keep a shovel, bag of sand, or kitty litter in your car at all times, so you’ll always have something on hand should your tires start slipping or if snow starts piling up on your hood.

 

Change your air filter regularly

Just like your furnace at home, your car’s air conditioner uses air filters that need to be replaced on a regular basis. This helps prevent larger problems from developing, including clogged vents or broken ductwork. Also, some manufacturers recommend replacing your air filter each time you change your engine oil. If you haven’t checked or replaced your filter recently, it’s not only a good time to do so; it can also help improve gas mileage, reduce emissions and give you a smoother drive.