Winter is here. Alongside the cold temperatures of the winter season come unpredictable weather and road conditions. Even though Arkansas winters aren’t as brutal as they can be up north, mother nature is always liable to throw a few cold and snowy days our way each year. It is always a good idea to expect the unexpected when you venture out on the highways during the winter time, so we’ve come up with a few things you can do to “winterize” your vehicle. Follow these steps to make sure you are prepared for whatever your journeys throw at you this season.
1. Make Sure Your Maintenance is Up-To-Date
It’s always important to perform regular maintenance on your car and make sure your hoses, belts, battery and brakes are performing as they are supposed to. This maintenance is especially important during the winter. No one wants to break down on the side of the road at any time of the year, but especially when it’s bitterly cold outside. Make a plan to visit the service center at Heartland Ford to make sure your car is in perfect operating condition.
2. Keep Your Tires at the Appropriate Pressure
Cold temperatures cause your tire pressure to drop, resulting in less traction on the road. Be sure to air up your tires before leaving the house to ensure your journey is safe and easy.
3. Keep Some Gas in the Tank
Keep more fuel in the tank during the winter than you would during other times of the year. If you were to get stranded, you wouldn’t want your gas tank to be near empty so that you couldn’t use your engine to heat your car. Don’t let your gas tank drop below 1/4 full during the winter months.
4. Always Carry a Jacket and Blanket
Even if you follow all the routine maintenance requirements of your vehicle, the worst still may happen: you break down and are stranded on the side of the road for a time. Or it’s possible that you get in an accident and are required to leave your car and stand on the side of the road while you wait for a ride. If any of these things occur, you will be happy to have a jacket or blanket in the back of your car to keep you warm.
Winter is a beautiful time in Arkansas, especially if we get a little bit of snow. Make sure you are prepared to travel this winter. Negligence can cause you a world of trouble. If you need any help winterizing your vehicle, your friends at Heartland Ford are ready to help. Schedule an appointment and come see us at our service center.