One thing you want to make sure you do before anything begins to fall from the sky is to check your tire pressure. Tire pressure is completely different in warm air versus cold air. As it gets colder, the air in your tire will compress. The compression of this air will affect the grip of the tire on the surface causing you to not get an adequate tread.
Once that wintry precipitation begins to accumulate on your car, it’s important to remember to clean off the entirety of your vehicle. Not only do you want to focus on your windows and lights, but also the top of the car. Snow and ice on the top of a vehicle can pose a threat to other motorists on the roadways. If the chunk of snow or ice dislodges from the vehicle it can put the person’s life behind you in danger.
Another thing to remember is that cleaning ice and snow off your car is not always a quick fix, so giving yourself extra time in the morning is crucial during the winter season. Whether it’s snow, ice, or just frost it’s important to take the time to clean off your car. If your car is in your garage and you decide to warm it up before you hit the road, you’ll not only want to give yourself extra time to do so, but you’ll want to make sure that you move your car out of your garage. Do NOT leave your car in your garage as poisonous carbon monoxide emissions from your vehicle can seep into your house. And of course, if you decide to warm up your car outside, do not leave your car unattended. This is how thefts and break ins can happen.
And if you must go out during a winter storm be sure to drive with caution on the roadways. Give enough space between you and the vehicle in front of you. If you hit a patch of ice or snow and begin to skid, avoid breaking too hard. Lift your foot off of the gas pedal and steer in the direction of the skid. This will help you to regain control of the vehicle. Avoid the breaks at all costs as this will only make the skid worse.
