Winter means snow, ice, and frigid temperatures, and it could also be bad news for your vehicle. If you want your car or truck to make it through the season without needing any major auto repairs, it’s time to change your driving and maintenance habits.

Fort Mitchell Garage in Covington, KY, has seen firsthand what can happen to a vehicle when it’s not taken care of during the winter. Here are four vehicle mistakes you can’t afford to make this season:

• Not Replacing The Windshield Wipers: When you’re driving home through a fresh flurry, your windshield wipers are your best defense. If you keep them past their useful lifespan, you’re putting yourself in danger. It’s best to replace them as soon as they start leaving streaks on your windshield.
• Not Getting New Tires: There’s a difference between summer tires and winter tires. When the roads are coated in snow, slush, and ice, you’ll need as much tread as possible to stay on the road. Take the time to change your vehicle’s tires before the first snowfall of the season.
• Forgetting To Check Tire Pressure: For every 10-degree drop in air temperature, tire pressure is reduced by about one PSI. Vehicle owners should check the tire pressure every two weeks during winter. It’s also a good idea to keep a portable air pump and pressure gauge in your trunk.
• Speeding On Snowy Roads: Even experienced drivers are no match for winter weather. Black ice is impossible to see, and driving too fast could put you, and everyone around you, in a dangerous situation. If you end up causing an accident, auto repair will be the least of your worries.

You can stay safe this winter by keeping up with vehicle maintenance and practicing good driving habits. But, if Mother Nature does get the best of your vehicle, you can count on Fort Mitchell Garage for affordable and reliable auto repairs. Schedule an appointment at their body shop by calling (859) 431-3326 or visit their Facebook page for more information.