Organize Your Car for Winter

Organize Your Car for Winter

It is time to prepare your car for the cold weather ahead. Here are a few items to consider before inclement weather catches you unprepared.

1. Prepare your car's finish for the punishment of salt and sand with a fresh coat of wax or other appropriate protective finish.
2. Schedule your vehicles for any necessary tune-ups and oil changes
3. Check your battery, coolant/antifreeze to be sure you can easily start your car on those cold mornings.
4. Check your tires and be sure they are winter worthy.
5. Check front and rear windshield wipers for signs of wear and replace as needed.  Keep your windshield washer reservoir filled.  Always have a spare bottle on hand for regular refills.
6. Prepare an emergency box for your trunk. Stock the box with ice melt /kitty litter (for traction), a jug of windshield washer solvent, a flashlight with fresh batteries, road flares or reflective signaling device, a new ice scraper and a shovel.  In a separate container keep extra socks, warm blanket, bottled water (leave room for expansion in case it should freeze) and some non-perishable snacks in case you are stranded.
7. Have a GPS in your car along with a travel charger in case your normal routes are blocked and you need to travel unfamiliar routes.
8. Keep your cell phone well charged and keep a charger in your vehicle, especially if inclement weather is predicted.
9. Consider giving a gift book of car wash coupons for your favorite driver. Help them to have good visibility, and to be safe.
10. The best way to be prepared is to get organized. Travel safely this winter!