Keep your car (and yourself) safe from winter weather by taking precautions before the season begins.  A little extra time and a few extra supplies can help protect you from worst-case scenarios during freezing temperatures.

Car Care

Take necessary precautions to keep your vehicle in working order during severe temperature drops. Check your car fluid levels (such as antifreeze) before cold weather arrives and before severe weather arrives, such as freezing rain, snow, or sleet.  Other investments, such as snow chains or new tires with fresh tread, are worth the effort as well.

In case all else fails, make sure you keep jumper cables in your trunk or stowed under the seat in case your car won’t start even after you take precautions to keep it from freezing up during severe cold weather.

Basic Supplies

Keep the interior stocked with necessary supplies as well.  A sturdy scraper to remove snow and ice from the windshield and gloves to protect your hands from freezing while cleaning the windshield and mirrors. 

A “survival kit” is also a good idea when traveling during winter weather.  A warm blanket, a sturdy plastic bottle of water, crackers, flares, and other supplies are good to keep handy in case you become stranded in a snowstorm.

Keeping supplies on hand and making necessary precautions can keep inconvenience and extra worry at bay this winter.  Protecting yourself from the worst weather is the best way to keep your vehicle free from costly repairs.