How to Winterize Your Car

Winter is officially in full effect, and regardless of what part of the country you live in, you’re feeling it. From torrential rain in the west to blizzards in the east, you must prepare for the season accordingly. In particular, driving in the winter can be dangerous, and it’s vital that you appropriately winterize your car. At Independent Insurance Associates, we are offering you some tips on how to winterize your vehicle for the season.

Ensure you have the best winter tires for your car and region

Not everyone needs snow tires, but if you live in an area that is known for snow, it’s a good idea to get a pair of snow tires on your car to reduce the chances of you slipping and causing an accident.

Check the tread on your tires

Regardless of the time of the year, you always check the tread on your tires. If your tire tread is uneven or bare, you should replace the tire immediately. Your tire tread should be at least 2/32 of an inch or higher on all tires.

Ensure your tires are properly inflated

The temperatures drop so does your air pressure. Properly inflated tires are crucial when it comes to driving in cold conditions, and it’s essential to make sure they are correctly inflated when driving in winter conditions.

Check the health of your battery

Weather not only impacts the power of your battery, but it also means that your car requires more energy to get started on those cold winter mornings. It’s best to get your battery checked in the fall to ensure it’s healthy for the season. While you’re at the shop, have them check your belts, hoses, and brakes too.

Change your wiper blades and fluid

There is nothing worse than having dull wipers in the middle of a massive rainstorm. Make sure your wipers are in good shape and that your wiper fluid is full to avoid being stuck in a difficult situation.

Have your cooling system looked at by a professional

To prevent freezing, ensure you are using the correct coolant for your vehicle and that the water-to-coolant ratio is correct.

Make sure your car has a stocked emergency kit

Emergency kits are crucial for winter and should include jumper cables, flashlights, blankets, food, water, tools, and a first aid kit.

Lastly, work with Independent Insurance Associates to make sure you’ve got the correct car insurance for your current climate

If you recently moved states, you may need additional car insurance that you didn’t need before. It’s always a good idea to review your coverage before the start of your first winter in a new city to make sure you feel safe and secure for the season.

Taking the time to winterize your car fully can not only save you a lot of time and money, but it can also save lives. At Independent Insurance Associates, we know that not all insurance companies are created equal, and we also know that navigating all of the options can be difficult. We are here to help you find the right insurance options for your situation so that you feel safe all season. Reach out today to set up a call with us to discuss insurance options.