As more severe winter weather approaches, it’s critical for vehicle owners to work with their vehicle service center to prepare their cars or trucks for the change in seasons. Failing to do so can lead to vehicle malfunctions and can even put you and your passengers at risk for potentially dangerous collisions. Below is a helpful guide to understanding what steps are necessary to make sure your vehicle gets you safely through the winter.

A Guide to Winterizing Your Vehicle

Tire Check

One of the most important steps in preparing your car or truck for winter is to have your tires rotated an inspected by a vehicle service center you trust. They’ll be able to easily assess whether your tires have sufficient tread to grip wet, snowy roads and prevent dangerous hydroplaning. If your tread is too low, they’ll likely recommend replacing them to help you stay safe on winter roads.

Routine Maintenance

While your tires are being inspected by a vehicle service center, it’s also a good idea to handle your routine vehicle maintenance. During a typical tune-up, the technician will likely check and replace important vehicle fluids, including coolant, oil, and transmission and brake fluids, which keep your vehicle parts lubricated and running optimally. They’ll also ensure your brakes, lights, and wipers are all functioning properly, as these each play a pivotal role when driving in cold and snowy conditions.

Emergency Kit

The last thing drivers want is to find themselves stranded on the side of the road during the dead of winter. While the above preparations should help you avoid this situation, it’s still recommended to pack an emergency kit in your trunk just in case. Whether you purchase a pre-made kit or assemble one on your own, ensure it has the essentials, including: jumper cables, a high-powered flashlight, flares, gloves, an ice scraper, a warm blanket, water, several energy bars, etc. This kit will be essential in ensuring your safety and comfort while you await roadside assistance.

If you’d like to get your vehicle serviced to ensure it is well-prepared to handle the chilly winter season, turn to Crescent Ford. Based in High Point, NC, their knowledgeable technicians offer quality auto repair services and affordable collision repair for used Ford cars and trucks. If you’re interested in upgrading your ride for the new year, they also have a wide selection of new and used cars to test drive. From a heavy-duty F-150 to a fuel-efficient Ford Focus, their team will ensure you find the car of your dreams. To learn more about their inventory, call Crescent Ford today at (336) 869-2181. To schedule an oil change or other service with their vehicle service center, visit them online.