Personal Insurance Blog

Warm sweaters and fireplaces keep you warm during the cold winter months. Just like you need proper preparation to brace for winter conditions, your car needs to get ready to face winter weather and roads. From frozen fuel lines to road salt damage, winter can take it's toll on your vehicle. 

Keep your car running smoothly and prevent winter-induced damage by following these recommended maintenance tasks:

• Change your regular tires for winter tires: If you live in an area where the temperature drops below 45 degrees, winter tires are recommended. Winter tires will give your vehicle better traction while turning or stopping on icy roads.
• Check your tire pressure: When temperatures drop, the cold air inside your tires contracts, making your tire pressure drop. Be sure to check your tire pressure as temperatures fall.
• Add antifreeze: Antifreeze is essential in helping keep your car running when temperatures drop. You can check your antifreeze levels yourself or ask your mechanic to check your fluid levels as well.
• Test your battery: Colder weather creates more challenging conditions for your battery’s performance. A weak battery during the summer could turn into a dead battery in the winter. Have a volt test  performed before winter arrives to be sure your battery is in good shape.
• Keep up with regular maintenance: Oil levels, lights, fluids and more should be checked with regular maintenance upkeep. Be sure to stay on schedule with recommended car maintenance, especially during the winter.
• Pack a survival kit: Emergencies can be unpredictable. If your car breaks down on the side of the road during a winter storm, you don’t want to be without essentials. Essentials to include are a blanket, extra clothing, a first-aid kit, a knife, a flashlight, jumper cables, a shovel, an ice scraper and a cellphone charger.
  
  

During the winter, driving can be dangerous if you and your vehicle are unprepared. At Gordon Atlantic, we want to be sure you're prepared for whatever winter weather throws your way.