To fully enjoy the safety, driving comfort and performance of your car, it is important to properly prepare it for the upcoming weather conditions. It is therefore necessary to count on the least effort to ensure safe driving in winter. To put the odds on your side, your vehicle must be kept in good condition and perfectly maintained. It only takes a few simple steps to minimize the risk of bumps and accidents. Here are 6 tips you should follow.

  1. replace your tires

Many drivers don’t know it, but there are summer tires and winter tires with very different characteristics and, most importantly, adapted to the season. Winter tires, long referred to as “snow tires,” retain their elasticity during the winter season and adapt equally well to dry and wet roads, while summer tires become harder in cold weather, significantly increasing braking distance. Check tire pressure weekly, if not every two weeks. Note that tires wear more at very low temperatures, as driving in such conditions (rain, frost, snow) damages the tire more quickly.

  1. check all these elements of your vehicle

At the beginning of the cold season, a general overhaul would be necessary. All fluids in the car should be topped up or replaced if necessary. Engine oil loses its properties within a year due to temperature changes, even if only a few miles have been driven. To avoid possible future costs, it would be ideal to introduce a new oil. Also, the antifreeze must be replaced every 2-3 years, as the freezing point decreases over time. So, you need to avoid waking up one morning to find your engine frozen! Also remember to check your brake fluid with a tester. If it’s dirty, it needs to be replaced. Finally, quality windshield fluid and high performance wipers can ensure good visibility while driving.

  1. always keep half a tank of gas

In the winter, experts advise always keeping your car’s gas tank half full so the pump can be properly cooled by the fuel. Too little gasoline or diesel can cause the pump to squeal or fail. By reducing the volume of air in the tank, you also prevent moisture from turning to gel.

  1. check the battery carefully

Due to cold temperatures, starting the engine puts more strain on the car battery. Thus, the latter risks being unexpectedly discharged. Therefore, it is necessary to check its load capacity during maintenance. Car batteries have a lifespan of about five years: If yours is older, you must replace it to avoid winter breakdown. Remember that winter puts an extra load on the batteries, so make sure that all electrical loads are turned off before starting the engine.

  1. drive carefully

This is, of course, one of the most important tips for the winter season. Drivers should avoid quick turns, sudden acceleration or braking when driving on snowy or icy roads. We recommend that you use the engine brake more often.

  1. accessories for winter in the trunk

In addition to the tips above, don’t forget to check your car lights and make sure you have the following items in your trunk.

  • Antifreeze
  • Shovel
  • Scraper
  • Windshield fluid
  • Oil
  • Roller fork wrench
  • Jack
  • Air compressor
  • Cover
  • Water
  • Other personal necessities