As wintertime officially begins and we get our families ready for the bitter cold temperatures by getting out those winter coats, gloves, and hats. Also, planning for snow days for both work and school, along with the holiday season, it can be easy to forget about how your vehicle will deal with dropping temperatures and slippery conditions. We have compiled a short but helpful list of tips that can help ensure that your vehicle makes it safely through the next few months of winter. Keeping your vehicle in excellent operating condition with help you be a safer driver which can help lower your insurance rates over time.
Keep Your Gas Tank Full
Some people may think this theory is a myth as gasoline is a mixture of several different elements and does not have a defined freezing temperature like water does. However, what many of us do not know is that when the freezing temperatures that can occur on a nightly basis begin to thaw during the daytime, it can cause condensation in a near-empty gas tank.
This condensation, just like any other condensation is water, this water can get into your gas lines. If this water freezes inside your gas lines, this can cause serious issues for your vehicle when you attempt to start it, especially on a day when it is below freezing.
Check Your Tire Pressure (TPI)
Most vehicles today have a Tire Pressure Monitoring System which will light up an indicator on your dashboard if your tire pressure falls below the required limit to travel safely. Chances are, you will see this indicator light appear on your dashboard during the winter months as your tire pressure will most certainly lower when the temperature falls.
If you have an older vehicle or just a vehicle that does not have a monitoring system, you will want to make sure that your tire pressure is above the recommended limit. To do this, you will have to open your driver’s side door and locate a sticker that will let you know what your tire pressure needs to be set at. Then stop by your local gas station as just about every gas station has an air station for your check your current tire pressure and fill your tires with air if needed.
Check Your Windshield Washer Fluid & Wiper Blades
Make sure to check under your hood to see how much windshield washer fluid that you have left as you probably know that windshield washer fluid is very important when it snows as slush easily gets stuck to your windshield. This slush dries quickly and can not be removed with just your wiper blades.
If you are low on windshield washer fluid, make sure to fill it up, and when you do, make sure to purchase fluid that contains anti-freeze as this will prevent your fluid from freezing. While you are at it, give those wiper blades a makeover, as it is recommended to change your wiper blades every 6-12 months.
Get A Quote
We want you to be prepared when you have to travel in inclement weather and want to make sure that you are covered just in case you are involved in an accident, contact Maryland Auto Insurance today for a no-hassle quote. You can also see what you need to report an accident here.