Even if you grew up driving in a cold climate, it’s always helpful to remember things to do when you’re faced with ice, snow, and sub-zero temperatures. It doesn’t matter how much practice you have – winter can catch up to you faster than you think! Here are 5 of our tips for getting ready to drive this winter.
1. Check your antifreeze levels – before winter time.
Your antifreeze to water ratio should ideally be about 50/50. However, as winter starts approaching, try to have your ratio at around 60% antifreeze, 40% water. When the freezing capacity outside increases, you’ve got to have extra protection. This will keep your engine safe from conditions that could harm your vehicle; if you live in an extremely cold climate, change your antifreeze level to 70% and the water to 30%. Basically, keep your antifreeze level appropriate for how aggressive the winter is in your neck of the woods.
2. Winter can affect your gas tank more than you may think.
Ultimately, regardless of your stance on how much gas should stay in your tank, it’s better to be safe than sorry. Try not to allow your gas tank to get below half empty this winter. Cold weather can make condensation form inside the tank, and this condensation can drip into the gas. Then, those water droplets sink to the bottom. The water droplets can cause major problems inside your gas tank, and they can end up harming or destroying your fuel pump.
3. Make sure your heating system works!
Make sure your heating system is working as well as the internal workings of your vehicle. The heater is going to be your best friend during the winter, so make sure it’s in tip-top shape before the cold weather sets in!
4. Keep some de-icing materials in your car.
Essentially, anything that could protect you from the cold or get you out of an icy predicament is something to keep in your vehicle somewhere. Whether you prefer salt or an ice scraper, having a way to get the ice and snow off of your vehicle will make your treks a whole lot safer. Make sure to put everything in there before winter really hits, though!
5. Schedule a winter check-up for your vehicle.
The recommended amount of time between tune-ups is 30,000 miles. Keeping your car in tip-top shape is incredibly important in the winter. You’ve got to make sure your vehicle is able to stand up to the challenges winter can bring. If there are any existing problems, it’s better to find them before anything bad happens, so get to the shop before you have to be towed there.
In the time leading up to winter, we recommend having a game plan long before the temperatures drop. At RV Transport Life, our priority is keeping RV transporters safe and prepared for any situation. We wish you lots of warmth this winter!
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