Prepare Your Vehicle for Snow and Ice with These Winter Maintenance Tips

Winter weather means icy roads and challenging driving conditions. Don’t leave your safety to chance—begin your pre-winter car maintenance today. Simple steps now can make all the difference when the snow hits.

Why It’s Time to Swap to Snow Tires
All-season tires might get you through most of the year, but winter conditions demand something stronger. Snow tires are engineered to handle low temperatures and provide far better traction on icy surfaces. This simple switch could save you from accidents and hefty repair costs. Snow tires have deeper treads and more biting edges, allowing them to cut through snow and slush more effectively.

Additional Winter Car Care Musts

Battery Inspection
Cold temperatures can drain your battery’s power, making it essential to check its health before winter sets in. A professional inspection will ensure your battery can withstand the freezing weather and keep you from getting stuck in the cold.

Test Your Tires
It’s very important to keep your tires properly inflated and to check their tread depth often. When your tires have the right air pressure and enough tread, they can grip the road better. This means you’ll have a safer drive and your car will perform well. If your tires are too flat or worn out, it can make your car harder to control, especially in bad weather. So, by taking a little time to look after your tires, you can help keep yourself and others safe on the road.

Fluid Levels
Fill your windshield wiper fluid with a winter-grade solution, and check other important fluids like oil and coolant. This helps your car run smoothly. Taking care of these fluids is important to avoid engine problems and to keep your car warm during the winter.

Emergency Items
When winter weather hits, it’s important to be prepared in case you get stuck in the snow. One great way to do this is by packing an emergency kit for your car. This kit should include a snow shovel so you can dig your car out if it gets buried in snow. An ice scraper is also important for clearing ice off your windows so you can see clearly while driving. Don’t forget to pack extra blankets to keep warm if you have to wait for help. Finally, having road salt or kitty litter can help your tires get better traction on icy surfaces. With this kit, you’ll be ready to handle tricky situations and stay safe on the road during snowy weather.

Taking these steps now will help you stay safe and avoid last-minute panic when the snow hits. Winter preparation not only safeguards your vehicle but also gives you the confidence to tackle winter roads head-on. Ray Chevrolet of Fox Lake can help you gain that confidence with service, parts, and vehicles that are ready to take winter head-on. Our experienced service technicians can help you with everything from battery checks to winter tire changes, and our sales experts can get you into an all-wheel-drive Chevy vehicle that can take on anything the weather throws at you. We look forward to seeing you at Ray Chevrolet of Fox Lake! 

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