Winter weather is on its way, which means you need to be prepared for all the winter driving that comes with it. Taking some time to prepare your vehicle for the season will keep you safe and help you get the most efficient operation possible when you’re on the road during cold and snowy weather.
Here’s a quick overview of some of the steps you can take to winterize your vehicles with the help of our semi truck repair shop in Ocala, FL:
- Get your regular service done: Now’s a good time to schedule your regular vehicle service, which includes checking the battery (and servicing/changing it as needed), making sure you have enough coolant/antifreeze in your vehicle, thoroughly inspecting the brakes (and changing as needed) and checking all spark plugs, wires, belts, hoses and cables. Make sure everything’s in good condition before you hit the road.
- Assemble a safety kit: It’s a good idea to have a safety kit in your vehicle throughout the year, but especially in the winter. If you break down in the middle of nowhere, you’ll get cold very quickly. Your safety kit should be stocked with first aid supplies, non-perishable foods, a thermal blanket, a flashlight and any tools or supplies you might need in the event of an emergency situation.
- Consider your tires: If you’re planning on swapping your tires out for winter tires (which we definitely encourage if you’re in an area that gets lots of snow and ice), make sure you do so before the weather gets extremely cold. In some areas that consistently see temperatures around or below freezing throughout the winter, the rubber in your standard tires could harden, which could reduce your friction with the road. Winter tires resist hardening and provide better traction. It’s also important that you regularly check your tire pressure, as your tires can quickly lose air pressure during the cold weather. Keeping the appropriate pressure helps you get the most out of your fuel efficiency while also ensuring proper traction.
- Change your windshield wipers: You should replace your windshield wipers a couple times a year, and entering the winter is a great time to do so. Special winter wipers come with rubber that’s been designed to prevent ice from forming on the blades. They’re heavier than regular wipers, so once winter is over you’ll want to swap them back out so as not to wear out the wiper motor.
- Check your wiper fluid levels: Make sure you always have enough windshield wiper fluid. During snowstorms you may end up using a significant amount of fluid to keep your windshield clear, so you’ll want to check your reservoir frequently to make sure it’s sufficiently stocked.
Interested in learning more about some of the steps you can take to set yourself up well for the winter months? Contact J & M Trailer Repair with any questions you have about your vehicle maintenance and our mechanics in Ocala, FL will be happy to provide you with assistance.