How to Winterize your Car

Next Sunday is the first day of winter. As you could tell by our past few articles, that means a change of climate not just for you, but for you car as well! 

• Engine oil. A drop in outside temperature influences the internal temperature of your engine as well. Particularly if you live where temperatures can get below freezing, you want thinner, less viscous oil (for example, moving from 10W-40 grade oil to 5W-30). You can refer to your car manual for further information
• Engine coolant. The coolant protects against both overheating and corrosion. Make sure your coolant is a proper mix of antifreeze and water (about 60% coolant with ethylene glycol to 40% water).
• Car battery. Battery capacity is reduced by cold weather, even up to 50%. Have your battery, cables, terminals, and fluids inspected before the cold weather sets in, especially if you have an older car. Check the cables for cracks and breaks, make sure the terminal isn't loose, and refill the battery fluid with distilled water if the level is below the bottom of the cap.
• Tires. Have your tires rotated and inspected, since they will be mixing with the snow, sleet, an ice. Check the tire pressure, which is particularly important for the winter to maintain better traction (you can refer to the owner's manual for the appropriate tire pressure). Consider buying a set of snow tires to change into only for the winter season if you live in an extreme-weather area, and change back into regular tires in the spring for better fuel efficiency and handling.
• Windshield. Visibility accounts for 90% of driver reaction, and can be impaired during winter months due to precipitation and salt buildup. Make sure to check the condition of your windshield wiper blades and wiper fluid reservoir. To clear off cold, heavy grime, select a washer fluid with an antifreeze solution (note that some can be harsh and may cause paint damage).
• Stock your car. Being stranded by the side of the road can be dangerous, and having these items available in your car is highly recommended: blanket, jumper cables, flashlight, chains, first-aid kit, small knife, flares, energy bars, watergloves, small shovel, waterproof matches, and ice scraper.

picture courtesy: http://www.longbeachautodetail.com/files/2012/12/winter_car.jpg

Emergency Kits: What to Have in Your Car!

Emergencies happen. You never know what life is going to throw at you. It is better to be prepared in the event of an emergency. Here are some handy things to keep in your car at all times.

• First aid kit
• Fire extinguisher
• Hazard triangle or road flares
• Tire gauge
• Flashlight
• Jumper cables
• Gloves
• $20 in small bills and change
• Pen and pad of paper
• Basic tools: a multi-head screwdriver, an adjustable wrench, and a pair of pliers
• Some rags or old cloths
• Small tarp
• GPS navigation and a paper map of the area
• Tire chains
• Blanket
• Hand warmers
• Rain poncho
• Roll of paper towels
• Pocket knife
• Food: granola bar, energy bars, and bottles of water

Store them in a small duffel bag in your trunk so that you are ready in any emergency. If it is too difficult to make your own emergency kit, there many pre-made kits you can purchase and throw in your car.

It may seem crazy or overzealous to keep this many belongings in your car, but in an emergency, these items could save lives. Create and store your own emergency kit today. You never know when it will come in handy!