Extreme temperatures can impact many of your car’s main functions. In the winter, it’s even more important than usual to keep up with regular auto repairs and maintenance, so you don’t end up broken down or injured in an accident. To stay safe on the road this winter, here are some best practices to keep in mind and some common mistakes to avoid.

Do:

Use an ice scraper.

Visibility is especially important in the winter, but many drivers are willing to sacrifice it to save time. To remove ice from your windshield, stick with a plastic ice scraper. Other methods like metal scrapers or hot water can damage your windshield.

Have your battery checked.

Losing power in your vehicle in the middle of winter can be quite dangerous, since you may be left without a heat source as you wait for a tow truck or jump start. Before going on any long trips, or if you’re expecting inclement weather, have your battery checked to be sure it won’t leave you stranded.

Use snow tires.

Snow tires have tread patterns that are specifically designed to give you traction when driving on snow and ice. Switching these out in the winter decreases your chances of spinning out or getting into an accident.

Don’t:

Let the gas level get too low.

When your gas tank gets close to empty in the winter, condensation can build up in the fuel lines and freeze, or your fuel pump could get overworked. Both of these issues can require expensive auto repairs. To avoid issues, keep the tank filled at least halfway throughout the winter.

Think that unusual sounds are due to snow or ice.

Sometimes snow or ice falling from your vehicle can make a noise, but you shouldn’t assume that all sounds through the winter are due to weather. Grinding brakes, vibrations, or squeaky wheels can all indicate serious auto repair needs that you should have addressed immediately.

Ignore regular maintenance.

No one wants to spend more time out in the winter weather than necessary, but you shouldn’t ignore your car maintenance because you don’t want to drive to the auto repair shop. Skipping oil changes, letting brake or transmission fluid run low, or ignoring broken windshield wipers can all create safety issues for you on the road.

If you need to schedule essential winter maintenance for your vehicle, trust the professionals at Brown County Automotive. Based in Mount Orab, OH, the auto repair shop offers a wide array of services, including brake repair, auto diagnostics, engine work, and new tire installation. The skilled and experienced mechanics treat every customer like family, and they assess every vehicle thoroughly for hidden issues. View a full list of services online, and call (800) 315-6669 to request service.