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Winter in Virginia comes with its own set of challenges. From high winds to icy road conditions, you want to ensure you’re ready to tackle the chilly season behind the wheel. If you can’t stay inside where it’s safe and warm, use these four tips to help you prepare for winter driving this year.
Assemble an Emergency Box
Putting an emergency supply box in your car is one of the best things you can do to prepare for winter driving. This simple step can make all the difference on a cold day if something goes wrong while traveling. Assemble a box full of supplies that you’ll keep in your trunk until spring — or beyond.
Consider using a large plastic container and pack it with a flashlight, first-aid kit, warm blankets, a change of clothes, socks, a pair of heavy-duty gloves, an extra ice scraper, and some non-perishable snacks like nuts and jerky. You should also consider flares, a radio with fresh batteries, a spare charged cellphone for 911 calls, and a bag of sand for added traction.
Check Your Antifreeze Levels
Your engine’s antifreeze is that magical substance that keeps your engine from freezing. Without it, you could find yourself in a real pickle this winter. Don’t take a chance that you’ll get stranded. Check your antifreeze before the snow flies. You can get antifreeze at any auto supply store or bring your car in for service if it’s time to have your system flushed anyway.
Check Your Tires
The last thing you want to do is find yourself with bald tires in the middle of January. Good tires are crucial to staying on the road during questionable weather when icy conditions and snow flurries make roads slippery. Do your part to ensure your tires are in good shape with just a few easy steps.
Place a regular penny into your tire’s tread. Make sure the top of Lincoln’s head points down. If you can see all of the former president’s forehead, it’s time for new tires. More than just good tread depth, tire pressure also plays a vital role in winter driving. Check your tire pressure with a simple gauge and follow your car’s owner’s manual recommendations for proper levels. Fill your tires up for free at many gas stations.
Switch to a Winter-Grade Oil
Consider switching to a winter grade oil at your next oil change. The colder the weather, the thinner you want your engine oil to be. Look at the first number of the oil specification. This rating represents the viscosity. The lower this figure, the better it is for cold weather driving. For example, a 5W-30 oil is a better choice than 10W-30 during a deep freeze.
Severe winter weather can be dangerous for travelers. All these tips are useful for operating a motor vehicle in the winter months. Go beyond keeping your car running. Keep you and your family safe in the event of a winter car emergency.
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