Prep Your Car for PA Winter
Prep Your Car for PA Winter
Make Your Appointment Today at our Service Center!
If you live in or around the Erie, Pennsylvania area, you know just how intense the winter weather can be! While living so close to one of our nation's Great Lakes comes with many privileges, it also tends to bring strong winds and chilling temperatures during the winter months. Living in the northern part of the state, many of us Pennsylvania residents have perfected our winter routines to make sure we can get the most out of the winter while still staying warm. However, just as we prepare our homes and our wardrobes for the impending snow, it's equally important that we prepare our cars! Naturally, the snow and ice will make the roads slippery, which can make even the shortest and simplest drives a bit more complicated. With the proper preparation and a few tools, you and your car will be fully prepared to take on the roads this winter! Read on to learn our tips on how to prep your car for winter in Pennsylvania.
Don't Forget Your Maintenance
The best defense against any inclement weather is having a strong and well-cared-for car that's running its best. The way you achieve this is to make maintaining your car part of your regular routine! We know that the winter months can be a busy time filled with holiday celebrations, last-minute errands, or trips to visit family and friends. Amid the hustle and bustle, it can be easy to let things fall through the cracks. However, it's crucial that you don't miss out on your routine maintenance like an oil change, tire rotation, or wheel alignment. These simple services will ensure that your car is running its best, and isn't overworking itself once the temperatures drop and conditions get tougher. You can also take this time to top off your fluids so that you don't get caught on empty once the roads get too snowy. The earlier you can get your maintenance taken care of, the better.
Invest in the Right Tires
Aside from your routine maintenance services, it's a good idea to give your tires a little bit of extra attention in preparation for winter. If your car has 2-wheel drive, opting for a set of snow tires or all-season tires will help you get the extra traction you need to stay in control on icy roads. Snow tires are a bit more robust, and get changed out once spring comes, whereas all-season tires can be used all year round. You could also ask about snow chains, which can also be taken off as needed for seasonal use. Once you have the right tires, make sure the air pressure is correct. A drop in temperature can change your tire pressure, and cause tires that were once full to feel a bit droopy. Your mechanic will be able to test this for you, and can also inform you of the correct pressure, and even have them filled during your service appointment!
Improve Your Visibility
When you're driving in the snow, your visibility is impeded. This means that it's harder for you to see lines and road signs, and it's also harder for other cars to see you. To help in both of these areas, it's important to think ahead and make sure all of your vehicle's parts are working properly. For example, think about changing out your wiper blades for a fresh pair, especially if your current wipers leave streaks. Making sure your windshield is clear is the best way to immediately improve your visibility. While you're topping off your windshield fluid, consider switching to a solution that contains anti-freeze, so you can quickly melt any ice or frost that might build up on your windshield during a storm. You should also make sure all of your exterior lights are working in both the front and rear, as this will help other cars spot you when visibility is poor due to snow.
Carry the Supplies You Need
Once you've equipped your car with the best parts to take on the snow, it's time to fill up your trunk with the essentials for handling snow. This definitely includes a warm pair of gloves with a waterproof coating so that you can easily clean snow off of your car. You should also have an ice scraper with a brush, or even a small snow shovel if space allows. The scraper will allow you to clean off your windshield in the event your car gets covered, and a shovel could really come in handy if you get boxed in by snow. If you have trouble pulling out of an icy driveway, consider keeping some salt or sand handy so that you can provide more traction for your wheels. You could also use household items like flattened boxes, or strips of old carpet to wedge under your wheel and help them get the traction they need to get you out of the snow. Keeping items like these on hand will prepare you for almost any situation!
Visit Our Service Center at Gary Miller CDJR!
No matter what you need to get your car ready for winter, Gary Miller CDJR is here to help! Our technicians at our service center will be able to answer any questions you may have about what your car needs. They can also perform all your routine maintenance services like oil changes and tire rotations, and help you order parts and accessories like new wiper blades, an ice scraper, and the proper tires for winter! You can make an appointment with us by giving us a call, or filling out the online form right here on our website. You can also check out any of the service specials we have to offer, so that we can get you a great deal. Book your appointment today at Gary Miller CDJR of Erie, PA and face the winter with confidence!
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Max payload/towing estimate ratings shown. Additional options, equipment, passengers, and cargo weight may affect payload/towing weights. See dealer for details.