Preparing your car for cold weather

With the recent drop in temperatures, it reminded us that winter and all that it brings will be here before we know it.  In order to be prepared for those cold winter months, its best to start now before the white stuff arrives.  So here is a list of items to have in your car and maintenance items to check or tasks to perform.

Items in your car

-          Blanket – to keep you warm in case you are stranded.

-          Jumper cables – these should always be there, but especially during the cold months when batteries like to die.

-          Extra hat and gloves – these can be wrapped in the blanket and will be helpful if you need to change a flat tire.

-          Kitty litter – keep a small box or bag of non-clumping litter or sand to use for traction if you get stuck.  Plus it adds weight for improved traction.  Just don’t overdo it because too much weight will hurt gas mileage.

-          Ice scraper – get one with a brush so you can remove snow on your hood and roof.  Also, be sure to scrape ALL of your windshield and not just a slot to look out.  Take the extra few minutes and be safe.  Removing the snow on your hood and roof will also prevent it from blowing off and blinding other drivers.

-          Duct tape – this can be used for quick repairs (broken window) or something else.  Watch MythBusters for ideas!

-          Matches or lighter – to light a fire to keep warm or signal for help.

-          Ziploc bag of TP – besides the obvious, you can also use it to start a fire.

-          LED flashlight – these last for up to 40 hours and can signal for help or let you view your surroundings.

-          First Aid kit – this should always be in your car, but just in case it isn’t, put it in now.

-          Food –items such as water, granola bars or power bars will help you if you’re stranded for any length of time.  Be sure the food will survive a variety of temperatures.

-          Backpack – not only can you keep all of these items in it, you can also use it if you need to abandon your car and carry the items with you.

Maintenance  Tasks

-          Washer fluid – top off your washer fluid with a type that won’t freeze.  It will also help to remove the salt spray on your windshield so you can see more clearly.

-          Battery check – have your battery checked for free at any local auto parts store.  If it’s close to dead, replace it.

-          Tire pressure – check all tire pressures, including the spare tire.  The guide for proper inflation is typically listed on the driver’s side door frame. 

-          Top off the gas tank – during the cold months it’s best to keep the gas tank above half full.  This reduces the likelihood of water freezing in the lines and stalling your car.  Plus it adds weight to your car for better traction.

-          Tires – make sure your tires have enough tread remaining.  This will improve traction and control during braking and turning.  You might also consider snow tires for even better control.

-          Antifreeze – make sure the level is full and it’s the 50/50 mix it should be. 

-          Wipers – put on new wipers to ensure the snow and ice is removed from your windshield while driving.

There are no guarantees in life, even if you perform all these items.  But if the worst should happen, you’ll be prepared to deal with it and survive with the only loss being time and nothing worse.  If you have any other items you include in your car, please share them with us.