Winters in Alaska can be dangerous, so it’s best to prepare in advance for emergencies. Professional Automotive, the premier tuneup and repair shop in Anchorage, AK, offers the following winter vehicle maintenance tips to help you stay safe this season. For more than 25 years, these experienced, ASE-certified technicians have provided fast, dependable oil changes, brake repair, and scheduled maintenance services for customers throughout the region.

5 Important Winter Vehicle Maintenance Tips

Assemble an Emergency Kit

Always carry a winter emergency kit in case you find yourself stranded somewhere. Include bottled water and non-perishable food, as well as a way to stay warm — blankets and extra clothes are ideal. Pack a flashlight and road flares to keep your car visible at night, and have a first aid kit ready in case medical assistance is needed. Tire changing tools and a set of jumper cables are also essential parts of your winter vehicle maintenance checklist.

Check Your Battery

Test your battery to make sure it is holding its charge properly. If it is not, don't wait! Replace it immediately before you find yourself stranded with a car that won't start.

Add Winter Wipers

You can also install winter wipers to make driving safer during the winter season. Winter blades have a sturdier frame with fewer moving parts, and rubber that resists ice buildup and stays flexible even in extreme cold. Winter wipers will keep your windshield clean and clear in any type of cold weather.

Check the Antifreeze

Check your antifreeze to make sure the mixture is appropriate and is still able to resist freezing. Testers are available at any hardware or auto parts store, or your local vehicle maintenance shop can test it for you. If you haven't changed your antifreeze in the past two years, now is a good time to do so.

Buy Winter Tires

Winter tires are another essential part of your vehicle maintenance checklist. Alaska gets a lot of ice and snow, so you need tires with deep treads that can grip the pavement, plow through slush, and shorten braking distances. Winter tires are your secret weapon against bad weather.

Professional Automotive, the most trusted auto repair and tuneup shop in Anchorage, AK, offers reliable vehicle maintenance for all makes and models, both foreign and domestic. Visit their website for contact info, or call (907) 562-2471 to discuss your automotive needs with a friendly expert.