It is 41 degrees right now and all I want to do is curl up in the warmest blanket possible right next to a fireplace with a huge cup o’ cocoa.
As you can probably tell, I don’t fare too well during winter 😉 And you know what else doesn’t run at peak performance during cold weather? Your car!
So bundle up and buckle up, folks, it’s time to prepare your vehicular transport for the chilly weather!
1. First off, shout out to all the mamas and papas in the world who’ve given this advice to their kiddos driving in icy weather at any point in their life: “Take it slow. Don’t drive any faster than the speed at which you’re willing to hit a brick wall.” Driving slowly and carefully will always be an option that the driver can have full control over.
2. Pack some heat for the cold. Some items I’d suggest for your trunk in case of emergency: ice scraper, windshield de-icer, flashlight, blanket(s), extra layers of clothing, a first aid kit, water, and snacks.
3. Double-check your headlights and any other lights on the exterior of your car!
4. I went on a tiny road trip this past weekend, and before I left I checked the air pressure in my car tires… And thank goodness! The air was almost 10 PSI lower than I normally had ’em at. The cold weather is going to do funky things to your tires, so make sure you double check, especially before trips!
5. Replace your windshield wipers every 6 months, and make sure you’re super on top of that once it starts raining, hailing, and snowing. Special wipers might be necessary if the weather dictates.
6. Always make sure your heater and defroster are in proper working order.
7. It can’t hurt to take a trip to your local auto store to have certain things looked over. This includes the battery, exhaust system, and anything else that might normally cause problems during winter.
8. Have chains or snow tires if your area is known to get dumped on with snow. I cannot stress this enough.
9. Keep your gas tank half full at all times.
10. Don’t be a hero when it comes to driving! Take it slow and steady if you feel it necessary!
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