If you’re relocating to Alaska from the lower 48, you can choose to drive all the way there or have the vehicle shipped through trusted auto carriers. Either way, you need to perform some maintenance tasks once the car arrives to ensure it keeps running well even in the significantly colder climate. Wrightway Auto Carriers in Anchorage, AK, lists some of the steps you’ll need to take.

Auto Carriers’ To-Do Vehicle Checklist

1. Test the Battery

Freezing temperatures can put more stress on a car’s battery, so run a test to determine if it needs to be recharged, repaired, or replaced before having the vehicle shipped out. Some are not suitable for the biting cold, and the cylinders may suddenly freeze or crack. Store a handy charger or jumper cables in the trunk in case of emergencies.   

2. Invest in Winter Tires

In Alaska, residents typically have two sets of tires, one for summer and another for winter. Install studded tires to get additional traction on the icy roads when you drive during blizzards and heavy snow. Salt is not allowed on Alaskan roads, as it can harm the habitat of local freshwater salmon, so gear up to ensure a skid-free drive.

3. Go for an Oil Change

Have the car’s oil changed immediately when you get to Alaska. Invest in a lighter, thinner variety in the engine because it becomes more viscous in cold temperatures, making start-ups difficult. Otherwise, you risk damaging the filters due to a surge in pressure. Remember to top up the antifreeze as well.  

4. Install an Engine Block Heater

In extremely cold weather, an engine block heater is crucial to warm up and start the vehicle faster. You can plug this into electrical outlets; however, some options do not require an external power source since they run directly on the vehicle’s fuel supply line.

5. Check the Headlights & Swap Out the Wiper Blades

Inspect the headlights to see if they are functioning properly; they will be especially critical when driving through winter conditions. Swap to winter wipers whose blades are encased in a protective rubber shell to keep the windshields ice- and snow-free. Also, replace the windshield washer fluid with something that won’t freeze easily.

Moving to Alaska? Getting a vehicle to your new home is a breeze with the professionals at Wrightway Auto Carriers. Serving residents and visitors for over 60 years, their team has provided timely, reliable car shipping services that ensure the safe delivery of your ride. Call (907) 277-4549 to speak directly with the auto carriers, or visit them online to learn more about what sets them apart.