Ahh, winter is here. Darkness, snow, ice, sleet, and – for us here in Nova Scotia and New Brunswick – salt. Lots of salt. But when the days are at their darkest and shortest, make sure you remember that the very next day will soon be longer again.
As well, remember, besides having the right car insurance for your car, there are things you should do to protect your car as we head into the winter months. Not only will these to-dos help protect the value of your car, they will also help protect you and your family through the winter months.
With that, here are five ways to get your vehicle ready for the coming cold:
1. Winter Tires – This goes without saying but can’t be reiterated enough. The only thing between you and the ice are the tires so try your best to get the best ones you can. Winter tires have a different rubber compound that remains pliable in cold temperatures and a more aggressive tread pattern for better traction on snow and ice. So be sure to make that appointment ASAP to swap out your regular tires for winter ones before the cold weather hits.
2. Check and Maintain the Battery – While those tires are getting switched, check that battery; nothing worse than being somewhere in the cold and turning on the car and getting nothing. Cold weather can be tough on your car’s battery. Make sure your battery is in good condition and consider a load test to ensure it can handle the cold. If it’s old or weak, replace it. Also, check and clean the battery terminals.
3. Antifreeze and Coolant – Ensure your car’s cooling system is filled with a 50/50 mixture of antifreeze and water. This will prevent your engine from freezing in extreme cold. Check the coolant level regularly and top it up if needed.
4. Winter Fluids – Use winter-specific fluids. This includes switching to a lower-viscosity oil, using winter washer fluid that won’t freeze, and applying a de-icing spray to the locks and door seals to prevent freezing.
5. Emergency Kit – This just isn’t for the winter but create an emergency kit to keep in your car. The winter kit should include items like a shovel, ice scraper, extra warm clothing and blankets, non-perishable food and water, a flashlight, first aid supplies, jumper cables, and a basic tool kit. You never know – especially here when the weather can turn in a matter of minutes- when you might get stranded in a snowstorm.
Further to this, be sure to develop good habits when preparing to go for a drive over the next several months. First, don’t forget to clear snow and ice off your car before driving, as it’s unsafe for you and other drivers. Next, give yourself lots of time to get where you are going. And finally, take your time getting places.
Do you have any other tips? We at Keyes Insurance would love to hear them. Contact us!
