How To

How to Prepare Your Car For Winter. Surviving Winter

Member
By Doodlebugs
User-Submitted Article
(5 Ratings)

Now is the time to get your car ready for winter. Here are some things you will want to remember.

Difficulty: Moderately Easy
Instructions
  1. Step 1

    Make sure it is in good running condition. Cold weather tests things like weak batteries and worn ignition wires. Get a tune up and replace your battery if it is time to. Depending on your area it may be time to put on your snow tires. Make sure they still have enough tread and if not buy new ones. Make sure your snow chains are in the trunk. Make sure your headlights are still bright and change them if necessary. Check that you have antifreeze in your radiator.

  2. Step 2

    Stock your trunk with survival items. It is a good idea to have a winter survival kit in your car as well. There are commercial kits available but if you can't afford one make sure you have the following items. Keep a good pair of jumper cables in the trunk, A good wool blanket and extra warm clothes, chemical hand warmers, warm mittens and a wool cap, a distress triangle to place behind your car and an orange distress flag for your radio antenna. Keep a couple of sports protein bars and a some drinking water. Make sure you always have a good working flashlight in the car as well as a portable air compressor with a built in emergency flashing light.

  3. Step 3

    Be prepared for ice and snow. A bag of kitty litter can come in handy for getting out of slick spots on ice. Keep a window scraper handy and an extra in case one breaks.
    Always check the weather forecast before you set out on a long trip and keep cell phone chargers handy in case you need to charge your phone. For more winter tips you can check with AAA and your state highway department.

Tips & Warnings
  • It is always a good idea to give your route information and departure time to the person you are visiting so they may alert authorities if you don't arrive on time.

Comments  

LilacGirl said

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on 10/5/2009 Great tips on how to prepare your car for winter.

brandy1123 said

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on 12/7/2008 great article

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on 12/5/2008 wow! really great tips! i agree w/MI-Sandi...the midwest really bites for winter weather...iowa's a bit ridiculous in the winter...glad i'm not in ny anymore, though!

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on 12/1/2008 Good recommendations!

MI-Sandi said

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on 11/14/2008 Great advice. Winters can be brutal in the midwest.
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