As a deep polar plunge sweeps across much of the United States, bringing with it freezing temperatures and icy roads, keeping your car winter-ready becomes particularly essential for safety and performance.
Winter conditions present a lot of challenges for drivers. Here are some critical steps to prepare your vehicle for the frigid months ahead.
Inspect and Maintain Your Tires
Tires are your vehicle's primary point of contact with icy or snowy roads, so keeping them in their best condition possible is vital.
Perform the "penny test" to check tread depth—if Lincoln's head is visible when you put the coin in the tread, it's time for new tires. In colder regions, consider swapping to winter tires, which are specifically designed to provide better traction in snow and ice.
With winter tires and normal tires, proper tire pressure is an important factor. Tire pressure decreases with the drop in temperature—typically by 1 PSI for every 10 degrees Fahrenheit—and improperly inflated tires offer less traction and safety.
Keep a tire pressure gauge handy and refill your tires as needed.
Check Key Vehicle Systems
Cold weather is hard on your vehicle and its systems.
Start by inspecting your battery, since freezing temperatures reduce its power. A professional test can assess the charge capacity of the battery. Be sure to replace weak or aging batteries to prevent breakdowns.
Also, check the antifreeze levels in your cooling system to maintain the correct 50/50 or 70/30 antifreeze-to-water ratio. Antifreeze prevents corrosion in the engine and keeps it safe from freezing.
Finally, don't forget to test your heating system and rear-window defroster. A functional heater matters a great deal if you are stranded during severe weather.
Winter Tools
Stock your car with essential winter tools, including an ice scraper, snow shovel and windshield washer fluid specifically made for freezing conditions. Winter wipers with rubber shielding help prevent ice buildup on the blades.
Creating a winter emergency kit is a good idea as well. Include blankets, a flashlight, extra batteries, non-perishable food, bottled water, jumper cables and a first-aid kit. Neon ribbons or reflectors can make your vehicle more visible if stranded.
Adjust Your Driving Habits
Driving in icy conditions requires caution and preparation.
Reduce your speed and maintain a greater following distance to allow for longer stopping times, and to guard against the possibility of black ice—a nearly invisible hazard that can cause you to lose control.
Avoid sudden acceleration or braking to reduce the risk of skidding. If you encounter an icy patch, ease off the gas and keep the steering steady.
By following these steps, you can minimize the risks associated with winter driving and help ensure your safety on the road.
Newsweek reached out to multiple driving experts by phone and text requesting further comment on Jan. 23.
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