Winter is coming, and that recent October storm was a reminder from Mother Nature that it’s time to prepare for snow. As a lifelong Massachusetts resident, I know how bad driving in freezing rain and snow storms can be, but there are steps we can all take to make traveling in winter weather a little less dangerous . In fact, you just might start enjoying snowy drives.
Here are a few tips:
1: Get your battery checked. The battery that easily started your car this summer may leave you stranded when cold weather hits. A battery check is easy and any of our Quirk service centers can do it for you.
2: Check your coolant levels. While winter wouldn’t seem like a time when your car’s cooling system has to work very hard, it’s the cold months that often reveal weaknesses in the system.
3: Check your wipers. A snow storm is the last place you want to be with ineffective windshield wipers.
4: Grab an extra gallon of windshield washer fluid so you won’t get caught on empty.
5: Get snow tires. I can’t stress the difference between all-season tires and dedicated winter tires enough. Good snow tires can be the reason you get home instead of getting stuck.
6: Put together a winter driving survival package that includes a first-aid kit, shovel, road flares, a blanket and extra gloves and socks. A bag of sand isn’t a bad idea either.
7: Get your car tuned up. Spark plugs, wires, fuel filter and air filter can help keep your car trouble free.
8: Clear your car off as much as possible. You need to be able to see everything around you when roads turn slick, so don’t settle for scrapping a peep-hole in the windshield.
9: SLOW DOWN. Winter roads deserve respect so slow down, take your time and drive with courtesy for others around you.
10: Stay home. The only way to really guarantee safety in snow storms is to not drive in them.
Take these tips to heart and you’ll be a little safer this winter. Also, if you’re in the market for a new vehicle that’s always ready for winter, Subarus are always a good bet. All-wheel drive models like the Subaru Outback can give you the control you need when the weather takes a turn for the worse.
