Fall Car Maintenance: Start Early to Winterize Your Vehicle
As the temperatures begin to drop and the first frost approaches, fall is the perfect time to prepare your car for winter. Snow, ice, and freezing conditions create hazardous driving situations in New York and beyond. Consider this: each year, tens of thousands of accidents are caused by icy roads, resulting in serious injuries and fatalities nationwide. Taking proactive steps to winterize your vehicle now can significantly reduce your risk of being involved in a cold-weather collision.
Why Winterizing Your Car Matters in Lackawanna
Winterizing your vehicle protects not only your safety but also the safety of everyone on the road. Cold temperatures put extra strain on almost every car component—from the battery to the tires—while snow and ice reduce traction and overall control. Around one-quarter of weather-related crashes occur on snowy, slushy, or icy pavement, highlighting the importance of preparing your car before the first storm.
Tires: Your Vehicle’s Lifeline on the Road
Tires are the only point of contact between your car and the road, making them critical for winter driving. Check your tread depth using a simple penny test: insert a penny into the grooves, and if the top of Lincoln’s head is visible, it’s time for new tires. Also, monitor tire pressure frequently; cold air can reduce pressure by about 1 PSI for every 10-degree temperature drop.
Should You Switch to Winter Tires?
Winter tires are designed with deeper, more flexible treads to provide better grip in snow and ice. They can reduce stopping distances by up to 25–30% compared to all-season tires, which can be the difference between avoiding a collision and being involved in one. In areas of New York that experience heavy snowfall or severe winter weather, equipping all four wheels with winter tires significantly improves handling, braking, and overall vehicle performance.
Battery Care in Cold Weather
Cold weather decreases battery capacity and can make starting your engine more difficult. Have your battery tested by a professional, especially if it’s more than three years old, since older batteries are more likely to fail in freezing temperatures.
Fluids That Need Attention Before Winter
- Antifreeze: Maintain a 50/50 mix of antifreeze and water to protect your engine down to at least -25°F.
- Windshield washer fluid: Switch to a winter-rated formula with de-icing properties to prevent freezing in the reservoir, hoses, and nozzles.
- Oil: Consider using a winter-weight oil, as cold temperatures increase oil viscosity and can make it harder for your engine to start on frigid mornings.
Essential Emergency Supplies
A roadside emergency kit can be lifesaving if you get stranded. Stock your car with a flashlight and extra batteries, jumper cables, a first aid kit, blankets, water, non-perishable snacks, an ice scraper, a snow brush, and sand or kitty litter for traction. Keep your gas tank at least half full to prevent fuel lines from freezing and ensure your heater can run if needed.
Other Key Checks Before Winter
- Lights: Inspect all headlights, brake lights, turn signals, and emergency flashers to ensure they work properly. Replace any burnt-out bulbs.
- Brakes: Test responsiveness and inspect for wear, since reliable brakes are critical in low-traction conditions.
Protect Yourself Against Winter Accidents with Lackawanna Car Accident Lawyers
Even with proper winterization and safe driving, winter conditions can still lead to accidents. If you or a loved one is injured in a winter weather collision, the experienced Lackawanna car accident lawyers at Dan Chiacchia Injury Attorneys are ready to guide you through the claims process. For a free case review, call 716-648-3030 or fill out our online contact form. Located in Hamburg, New York, we proudly serve clients throughout the surrounding areas.
