February 9, 2016
Winter storms are always difficult to deal with, especially for drivers who need to be out on the road in such turbulent conditions. Navigating through inclement weather is challenging for even the most skilled drivers, and it is simply a risk that many individuals should not take on the road. If it is not possible for drivers to stay home during the season, however, it is important to plan ahead with some correct driving techniques and maintenance procedures. Begin by addressing any and all vehicle service alerts that the vehicle may have. These include things such as filter and oil changes. Any performance issues that would normally arise from the state of the vehicle can be exacerbated by the weather. If there is an immediate service alert that the vehicle experiences, drivers should be sure to take it to a body shop as soon as possible. Additionally, regular service checkups are vital as well. These are important precautionary measures that can help drivers save money on potentially larger and more troublesome repairs. In addition to general problems, drivers should always take the time to inspect their batteries and internal charging systems to prevent the interior from freezing. The cold weather is especially problematic for parked vehicles. If drivers leave their cars out for extended periods of time, the battery may freeze over and cause splinters and cracks to develop in the casing. When that happens, drivers need to cover repairs on the casing, in addition to the battery. In order to reduce the possibility of potential damage to the casing and engine, professionals urge drivers to turn the heat up on their engines and let the system warm up first. If the battery is damaged by the weather, it is crucial to replace it as soon as possible. Additionally, drivers should inspect their cooling system to make sure that it is refilled and flushed. In addition to ordinary service visits, drivers should keep a bottle of de-icer or antifreeze in their vehicles for an emergency. This can prevent moisture from forming and freezing in the fuel line. Before using, cut the coolant with water to a half and half ratio. Keep the radiator cap on the engine until it has cooled completely, as this is the best way to prevent potential damage. A little bit of carefulness can go a long with vehicle maintenance.