5 Winter Car Care Tips – Don’t Leave Home Without These

Old Man Winter is in full force these days with some people seeing snow on Christmas for the first time in over 100 years!

With the unpredictable weather wreaking havoc on traffic and safety, these tips from Jessi Combs, a car care expert and fabricator who has appeared on shows such as “Mythbusters,” “Overhaulin” and “Xtreme 4×4,” will help you prepare your car for the worst winter driving conditions.

Check Your Tires

Cool air is less dense and can cause your tire pressure to drop. Make sure you keep your tires properly inflated to ensure even tire wear and lower fuel consumption. If your tires get overinflated, this causes less traction on the road and your car will slide. Combs says to check your owner’s manual or the side of the tires to see what the recommended pressure level is for your type of tire. Check your tread too; worn tread means less grip on the road and less safety in adverse conditions.

Stock Your Trunk

A few items placed in your trunk could be lifesavers if you get stuck in a snowstorm or stranded due to engine problems. Combs recommends a good ice scraper not just for your windshield but also for scraping your headlights and taillights. Also, a small bag of sand can be very useful for adding weight which gives you extra traction while driving and for if you get stuck in the snow. The sand provides something for your tires to grip onto. Don’t forget a set of jumper cables, a small shovel to dig yourself out if you get stuck in snow, as well as a warm blanket, flashlight, hat and gloves and some non-perishable snacks.

Check Your Oil

The proper type of oil for cold weather is imperative for keeping your engine running smoothly. A full synthetic oil, such as those from Mobil 1, quickly flows to the engine parts even at low temperatures. For more information, go to www.mobiloil.com to find out what type you need.

Check the Heat

Even if you live in Florida, you’ve probably used the heat setting in your car already this winter due to all the cold weather. If your system isn’t heating properly, take it to be serviced instead of getting caught in a storm with no heat. Combs recommends turning on the heat immediately upon starting the car. The gradual warm-up of the air while the engine heats will prevent any cracks in your windshield from expanding.

Go Get Gas

Combs recommends not allowing your tank to fall below half full. If you get stranded in an unexpected snowstorm, you will need to idle at times to keep warm, which won’t work if you are out of gas. Also, low fuel will stress you out if you get stuck in a giant traffic jam during your commute or trip to or from the mountains.

“Your car will be a more dependable throughout the cold winter months if properly cared for,” says Combs. “And in the winter, there are few things more bitter than a troublesome car.”

For more information on vehicle maintenance, visit www.mobiloil.com.