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3 Tips for Keeping Your Car Winter-Safe ALL Winter Long
Snow happens even down here in hot Texas. In fact, I think drivers down here have a much harder time with even a few flakes of snow than people up in cold states that are used to it. It is even more important for those of us that live in hot states to be prepared for snow right up until the very end.
As spring draws ever closer, we often let down our guard in winter preparation. But for some states, the end of winter hits the hardest. In fact, in many states winter doesn’t even start until mid-January! That’s why winter preparedness is important all season long!
I don’t worry too much about maintenance until we are getting ready for a long road trip, such as my husband’s parent’s place. Other than that, our regularly scheduled maintenance is okay. I usually take the car in for a checkup in late September, and also for oil changes about every two months unless I notice something going on that needs to be looked at.
The three items that are most important on my winter car prep check list are:
- Tires
- Insurance
- Emergency Kit
Winter Tire Check
The roads down here do not get too bad, but they are slippery if it snows even a little. I always make sure the threads on our tires are still deep enough to get a good grip on the road. If the tires are worn, I get a new set before cold weather hits. I also check the air in the tires any time the weather changes drastically in either direction.
In Texas, we are prone to fast ups and downs, and all that hot-to-cold, cold-to-hot means tires lose air pressure. Each tire has the proper inflation rates printed on them, so I make sure they are at the right inflation.
Winter Insurance Check
I always make sure we have the best insurance comparison. I do a regular check of all of the different policies that compare to our current one and will get an automotive insurance quote if I find a policy that could be better than the one we already have. I also make sure our insurance is up-to-date. The winter months are the most prone to accidents, and I wouldn’t want to be even a few days late on a payment when we need it most.
Preparing the Winter Automobile Emergency Kit
The emergency kit is what I consider the most important thing for winter car preparedness. Getting stranded for any reason is a hassle at any time, but in the cold months it can be even more dangerous. I always make sure the car is stocked with water, blankets, pillows, a flashlight, and batteries; as well as common maintenance items like oil, tools, and a jack and lug wrench.
Since I never leave the house without my cellphone, I know that I can always call my insurance company when I need to. My husband is never far away, either, so I can give him a call and have him come and get me too. However, it doesn’t take long to get cold when the temperatures are below freezing.
With the kids in the car most of the time, I feel better knowing those items are there. By having taken the time in November to get these things done, I can sit back and relax throughout the rest of the winter season and feel safe and secure when I have to go out, whether the girls are with me or not, even in the worst weather.
After preparing the car, it’s time to enjoy life and everything that it has to offer. I know that my family will be safe and taken care of even if something tragic and unexpected did happen while out on the road and it’s a great relief that I know I will be prepared.
Photo by SkyFireXII
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About the Author: Melissa Cameron
Melissa Cameron lives in Texas with her husband Dave and their two children. As a freelance writer, and mother of 2, she enjoys a full life that includes time with her parents who live next door. Her topics of interest when writing include parenting, local history, and living life frugally. She spends some of her downtime searching the Internet for bargains and researching ideas for articles.
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2 Comments on 3 Tips for Keeping Your Car Winter-Safe ALL Winter Long / Add Your Comment
during winter you need to check your car and inspect it for tune up. Since during this times the brakes and the engine are ones that will be affected. And also it would be best if you have a garage to keep your vehicle safe from random and unexpected heavy snow storm.
Great tips. Winter is harsh time. You should care for your car and protect it to avoid bad surprises.