Headed Out in the Cold? Be Sure Your Vehicle is Ready First

If you want to avoid finding yourself stranded in your vehicle in sub-zero weather this winter, the Minnesota Department of Public Safety can help. The agency has provided the following tips in a news release to keep your vehicle in tip-top shape and avoid winter accidents:

• Schedule a tune-up if you haven’t already (and next year, try to do it during the fall, before the snow flies when they’re less busy). Be sure your mechanic checks the following:
• Battery. Batteries really suffer in cold temperatures.
• Cooling system/antifreeze. Believe it or not, your car can overheat in cold temperatures.
• Heater, defrosters, wipers. Consider using wiper blades and washer fluid specifically designed for winter.
• Tire tread depth. State law requires a minimum of 3/32”.
• Tire pressure. Cold air deflates tires—specifically, about a pound of pressure per 10 degrees.
• Brakes. You don’t want to find out they’re worn by ending up in a snow-filled ditch.

In addition, be sure to change your oil and filters changed regularly. And consider a few investments that may make your life a lot easier:

Stranded in Your Car in Sub-Zero Weather? Here's What to Do

• A block heater. You can plug this small engine heater into a standard outlet overnight instead of worrying whether your car will start in the morning.
• A small hydraulic jack. They’re safer and easier to use than the ones that come with most cars. While you’re putting it in the trunk, learn where your spare tire is and how to get it out. Check on its condition and make sure its tire pressure is good.
• Snow tires. They’ll help your car handle better while braking, starting and turning, because they grip the road for better traction.

And before you go anywhere, check the weather and road conditions (if they’re bad, stay put, especially if your outing isn’t absolutely necessary), keep your emergency kit in the cabin with you, and top up your gas tank. If the worst happens in bad weather, remember that towing companies will be very busy, so you need to be prepared to wait for help to arrive.

With a few careful precautions, you may not have an epic survival story to tell – but arriving warm and safe at your destination is the better option.

Image via Minnesota State Patrol