Vehicle Maintenance for Safe Winter Driving

The Holiday Season is upon us and that means winter driving in rainy, snowy and icy weather. Even with the current gas prices, taking the family to Grandma’s for Christmas, or that special place for a winter vacation, is a must. In addition to packing some winter blankets and loading up the trunk with Christmas presents and baked goodies, taking the time to get the appropriate vehicle maintenance on your vehicle will make your trip more pleasurable and carefree.

Here are 7 important car maintenance tips to get your vehicle in tip-top shape for that holiday road trip:

1. Check Tires - Make sure the treads on your tires are adequate for rainy or snowy weather or you could be in for a nasty surprise when that unexpected storm hits. Check your tire pressure too as it will improve your vehicle’s fuel efficiency and ride.
2. Check Headlights - It’s easy to overlook a burned out headlight, or any of your other lights (brake lights, back-up lights, turn blinkers). Enlist the help of another person to walk around your vehicle to physically look and see that all of your light bulbs are working and bright. You want to see and to be seen!
3. Check & Replace Windshield Wipers - Make a habit of replacing windshield wipers at the beginning of each fall or winter. You’ll be happy you did as you’re driving through a storm.
4. Check Brakes for proper operation – Have them inspected twice a year to be sure you can stop on that proverbial dime. Part of a normal brake inspection and car maintenance service should always be to make sure that the fluids are clean and at the right levels.
5. Check Radiator Fluids - If the radiator fluid becomes dirty, the radiator could begin to break down and corrode. A once-a-year radiator flush is good car maintenance that will enhance your safety and all the features of your vehicle functioning properly.
6. Check Air Filter - Replace the air filter at least twice a year. This is excellent vehicle maintenance to keep your car running smoothly and quietly.
7. Check Battery - In the winter, corrosion can build up quickly in your car’s battery. Make it part of your regular vehicle maintenance to check the battery’s posts and cables so that your car will start quickly for you whenever you need it.

Does your vehicle need “winterizing”? We can help with your vehicle maintenance so that you can stay safe during your winter driving. Contact the ASE-Certified Technicians at Gary’s Quality Automotive shop by calling (308) 381-2295 or go on-line at http://www.garysautoinc.com/ for more information. Our auto shop proudly serves vehicle owners in Grand Island, Wood River and Doniphan, NE.