Wisconsin winters aren’t for the faint of heart. We’ve got extreme cold, crazy temperature changes, snow, ice, wind, you name it. Inevitably at some point if you live in the frozen tundra long enough, your car can break down. That’s something you want to 100 percent prevent so we are going to give you some tips on how to avoid getting stuck in the cold and snow!
-
-Make sure you have your car serviced for winter- that includes making sure your battery has enough juice to get you to where you need to go. In winter, the cold means that it takes more energy for your car to start. Make sure your battery is up to par.
-
-Get winter tires! While all season tires can do the job, it won’t offer you what winter tires can. Rubber compounds in tires can harden and not only deflate a little more, but can also decrease your tire’s ability to grip the road.
-
Make sure your maintenance is up to date! Hoses, belts, cables, wires, spark plugs...they all are essential to making your vehicle run smoothly. Make sure these things are routinely checked at your oil changes.
-
-Winter wipers! Snow is a lot heavier than rain and ice is also thicker and harder to wipe away. These specific wipers are heavier and equipped with rubber that doesn’t let ice collect on the blades.
-
-Make sure your washer fluid is full! It also doesn’t hurt to get washer fluid that is rated for colder temperatures that can melt ice on your windshield. If your windshield gets dirty (which they inevitably do in winter) it can keep ice from forming while using your washer fluid to clean the windshield.
-
-Make sure you have a winter safety kit- Things that can be really helpful if you ever get stranded in your car are matches, a first aid kit, blankets, a flashlight with spare batteries, jumper cables, a bag of sand or kitty litter, an extra shovel, and extra anti-freeze are things that can help you or even save your life if the temperatures dip cold enough.
-
-Make sure your defrosters are working properly in your car- Being able to see in front of and behind you can keep you from entering unsafe driving conditions. Some state laws also say that your rear window and windshield must be free of condensation and debris. Not only is it safer for driving, it can save you from a ticket!
-
-If you get stuck in the snow, don’t keep your car running for long periods of time! Turn it on long enough to warm you up, but then turn it off again. This can save you from carbon monoxide poisoning.
These helpful items and tips can help you if you get stranded or could help someone else! Make sure to get your oil changes and winter checkups at Schmit Bros for a safe journey ahead.