Winter will be here before you know it. So this is the time to ensure that your vehicle is prepped and ready for the colder months. Snow, ice, sleet, and freezing temperatures can really take a toll, so here are some handy tips to prepare your car or truck for the winter, courtesy of Peruzzi Toyota. Here’s to safe winter driving!
CREATE A “WINTER KIT”
During a winter emergency, some essentials can make all the difference. The pros at Peruzzi Toyota suggest keeping the following items in your vehicle:
-Ice scraper, snow brush
-Flashlight, flares, portable radio (and don’t ignore the batteries)
-First-aid kit
-Ice-melt solution
-Extra blankets, hats, gloves, scarves
-Bag of kitty litter (great for providing some tire traction when you’re stuck in the snow)
-Small shovel (to help remove snow from around tires)
-Non-perishable snacks, like trail mix or protein bars
-Charger for your phone
PREPARE YOUR VEHICLE
Let the service experts at Peruzzi Toyota get your vehicle ready for winter with the following checks.
-Depending on where you live, install snow tires for the season. This is especially important if you live in areas that are extra-hilly or tend to get more snow.
-Check your tire tread depth and tire pressure to ensure you can avoid slipping on snowy or icy roads.
-Switch out wiper fluid for a winter version that’s better at removing ice and snow from your windshield.
-The same thinking goes for your oil. A winter-grade oil is thinner and is more effective in colder months.
-Check engine coolant and antifreeze levels to ensure your engine runs at peak efficiency.
A few safety tips are specific to winter months. Never keep your car running when its parked up against a snow bank. Any blockage can create deadly carbon monoxide poisoning.
It’s always best to stay with your vehicle in a weather emergency. Tie a brightly-colored rag to your car’s antenna to alert police or road crews. This is also where those flares you packed come in handy (not to mention the blanket and the snacks).
With some sensible preparation and planning, you and your vehicle will weather the winter season with no problem. Have questions? Contact Peruzzi Toyota for all your safety questions.
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