Winterize Your Car: Expert Tips for Safe Driving in Cold Weather
As winter approaches, drivers must take precautions to ensure their vehicles are ready for the cold. Kazimieras Urbonas, Supplier Excellence Manager at Ovoko, shares essential tips to keep your car safe and reliable in chilly conditions.
Firstly, switch to winter tires when temperatures drop below 7°C. Standard summer tires lose grip and become dangerous in cold weather. Winter tires, using softer rubber compounds, stay flexible and provide better traction on wet and icy roads.
Regularly check your tire pressure, as it drops by 1-2 PSI for every 10°C decrease. Underinflated tires can lead to reduced handling and increased fuel consumption.
Protect your engine by checking antifreeze levels before the cold sets in. Freezing temperatures can damage your engine if the antifreeze levels are too low.
Cold weather can halve your car battery's power, making it harder to start your engine. Use a portable jump starter to prevent being stranded.
Avoid using hot water on frozen windows, as it can crack the glass. Instead, use a proper ice scraper and de-icer spray. Similarly, use proper antifreeze and screen wash to prevent summer screen wash from freezing.
Prepare an emergency winter kit including warm blankets, waterproof gloves, a torch, high-energy snacks, bottled water, a first aid kit, and a phone charger to ensure your safety in case of unexpected breakdowns.
By following these tips, drivers can ensure their vehicles are winter-ready. From switching to winter tires to preparing an emergency kit, these precautions can help keep you safe and mobile during the cold season.
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