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The harsh winter months can cause congested roadways to become even more dangerous than they already are.
Snow, black ice, sleet, and rain are just some of the potential natural hazards that can lead to unsafe driving conditions.
Protect yourself and your car by being proactive and following these winter preparation tips provided by the Bureau of Automotive Repair (BAR).
Check under the hood
It is important to make sure your car is updated on its routine maintenance before the cold months hit. If the maintenance of your car is not up to standard, it may negatively affect your car’s performance and be unsafe to drive in the winter weather.
Check out the car battery and battery cables. BAR informs drivers to look for things like erosion, cracks, and dirt. Inspect the hoses and belt. Look for any cracks, soft spots, or bulges. Be sure to stay on top of changing your oil and oil filters when needed. Don’t wait until your car breaks down on the side of the road to check the mechanics of your car. You might be waiting for that tow truck in the snow!
Test the heater and defroster
Some of the most important things that BAR urges drivers to check before winter are the antifreeze and coolant levels. Having these fluids at the appropriate levels will ensure your engine doesn’t freeze over in the cold. This will prevent your heater and defroster from being unable to keep you from freezing over in the cold. Test your heater and defroster system regularly, and make sure everything is working properly.
Pack a winter safety kit
BAR also encourages drivers to pack and carry a winter safety kit in their cars at all times. Items should include:
- Jumper cables
- Flashlight
- Extra batteries
- Basic first-aid supplies
- Blanket and warm clothing
- Battery-powered radio
- Toolkit
- Bottled water and non-perishable food
- Safety flares
- Windshield ice scraper
Inspect the outside of your car
Now that the inside of your car is prepared for winter, the next step is to check the outside.
This includes inspecting your windshield wipers. These need to be in excellent condition to properly work in the event of a blizzard or intense rainstorm. BAR wants to remind drivers to check their blades thoroughly and be sure to replace them if they are worn or cracked. Checking your tires is also an important step they recommend. Check the tread, and tire pressure, and make sure they were rotated recently. Don’t forget the spare! Finally, be sure all of the lights on your car are in working condition. This includes turn signals, brake lights, high beams, and fog lights. For maximum visibility, be sure to clean the lenses regularly.
Always verify licenses
Before hiring a business to make any repairs or perform maintenance on your car, always verify their licenses are current and valid with the BAR. Be sure to also check the business’ ratings and reviews on BBB.org.
The way to keep yourself and your car safe from the harsh winter months is to be proactive. Learn more about the Bureau of Automotive Agency’s tips for preparing your car for winter and read BBB's tips for preparing for winter travel. For more information on automotive repair scams, visit BBB.org/ScamTracker.
For more information
Read BBB's tips on staying safe during winter storms and natural disasters.
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Have winter storm damage? Hire the right people to help.
Take a look at BBB's tip for choosing and hiring a mechanic.