Auto Shop Checklist for Safe Winter Driving!
No one wants to break down at any time, even more so if it’s cold outside! Whether you’re headed to work, off for fun in the snow, or taking a road trip to Grandma’s house, start off with a visit to your auto center. If you haven’t done so earlier in the fall, schedule a bumper-to-bumper inspection to make sure you are driving as safely as possible!
Here is a checklist provided by an auto shop that will ensure your vehicle is in peak operating condition:
- Routine Service. Have your entire vehicle inspected thoroughly for leaks, worn hoses, or other needed repairs.
- Car Battery. Check the voltage, charging system, belts, and connections to make sure your battery is up to the challenges of cold weather. If your battery is more than a few years old, it may be time to replace it.
- Cooling system. Check the coolant level and mixture to make sure it’s designed to withstand the winter temperatures in your geographic area.
- Windshield wipers and defrosters. Make sure your wipers work and replace worn blades. Fill the washer reservoir, using a high-quality “no-freeze” fluid (keep extra on hand in your vehicle). Make sure that your window defrosters (front and rear) work properly.
- Tires. Because tire pressure drops as the temperature drops, make sure they are at the correct inflation pressure. Also, check the tread for uneven wear patterns. If it’s time to purchase new tires, you may want to choose snow tires.
- Know how to handle your car. Get the feel of how your vehicle handles in winter weather driving conditions. Know what kind of brakes your vehicle has and how to use them properly in stormy conditions.
- Plan your route. Check the weather, road conditions, and traffic and allow plenty of time to arrive safely. Let others know your route and ETA. Keep your gas tank as full as possible.
- Emergency Kit. Carry items in your vehicle to handle common winter driving tasks, such as, snow shovel, small broom, ice scraper, sand or kitty litter, jumper cables, flashlight, flares, blankets, cell phone and charger, water, snacks, and extra prescription medicines.
Visit an auto center to take care of problems before you have an emergency! Contact our ASE Certified Technicians at Clausen Automotive for more information and to schedule an appointment. Since 1975, our family-owned auto shop has proudly served vehicle owners in Madison, WI, and the surrounding communities.
No one wants to break down at any time, even more so if it’s cold outside! Whether you’re headed to work, off for fun in the snow, or taking a road trip to Grandma’s house, start off with a visit to your auto center. If you haven’t done so earlier in the fall, schedule a bumper-to-bumper inspection to make sure you are driving as safely as possible!
Here is a checklist provided by an auto shop that will ensure your vehicle is in peak operating condition:
- Routine Service. Have your entire vehicle inspected thoroughly for leaks, worn hoses, or other needed repairs.
- Car Battery. Check the voltage, charging system, belts, and connections to make sure your battery is up to the challenges of cold weather. If your battery is more than a few years old, it may be time to replace it.
- Cooling system. Check the coolant level and mixture to make sure it’s designed to withstand the winter temperatures in your geographic area.
- Windshield wipers and defrosters. Make sure your wipers work and replace worn blades. Fill the washer reservoir, using a high-quality “no-freeze” fluid (keep extra on hand in your vehicle). Make sure that your window defrosters (front and rear) work properly.
- Tires. Because tire pressure drops as the temperature drops, make sure they are at the correct inflation pressure. Also, check the tread for uneven wear patterns. If it’s time to purchase new tires, you may want to choose snow tires.
- Know how to handle your car. Get the feel of how your vehicle handles in winter weather driving conditions. Know what kind of brakes your vehicle has and how to use them properly in stormy conditions.
- Plan your route. Check the weather, road conditions, and traffic and allow plenty of time to arrive safely. Let others know your route and ETA. Keep your gas tank as full as possible.
- Emergency Kit. Carry items in your vehicle to handle common winter driving tasks, such as, snow shovel, small broom, ice scraper, sand or kitty litter, jumper cables, flashlight, flares, blankets, cell phone and charger, water, snacks, and extra prescription medicines.
Visit an auto center to take care of problems before you have an emergency! Contact our ASE Certified Technicians at Clausen Automotive for more information and to schedule an appointment. Since 1975, our family-owned auto shop has proudly served vehicle owners in Madison, WI, and the surrounding communities.
