Winter weather is just around the corner, and that can make driving a bit of a challenge. Even mild winters can be tough on vehicles if you don’t take the right precautions beforehand. However, with the right auto maintenance and supplies, you can get your car ready to handle all the snow, ice, and plummeting temperatures that winter throws at it.

3 Important Steps to Get Your Car Ready for Winter

1. Check Your Tires

Tires that are deflated or worn cannot properly grip snowy or icy roads, increasing the possibility of slipping and getting into an accident. To avoid this issue, check your tire tread and pressure before winter hits, and continue to do so throughout the season. If your tires’ pressure runs low, refill them and continue to monitor their levels. If the treads are worn or uneven, it may be time for a replacement.

2. Add Emergency Supplies

To stay safe while driving in winter conditions, stock up on extra supplies. Equip your car with an ice scraper, shovel, road flares, flashlights, batteries, and bottled water in case you get stuck. These supplies can help you whether you run into a snowstorm or have to deal with frosty windows on a particularly cold day.

3. Top Off Fluids

Engines can freeze in extreme cold. Although this is rare, the results can be crippling, so take precautions to prevent widespread damage to your vehicle before the weather gets too cold. Take your vehicle to an auto maintenance professional to ensure that your fluids are at appropriate levels, including motor oil, antifreeze (which regulates the temperature of your engine), and windshield washer fluid (which you may need to get rid of frost).

If you need any auto maintenance service or new tires for winter, the professionals at Brothers Tire Sales in Kannapolis, NC can help. The auto mechanic has been in business for 57 years, and the team has more than 200 years of combined experience. You can find competitive prices for auto maintenance and repair services, as well as quality tires from top brands like Michelin® and BFGoodrich®. Visit the company’s website to see a full list of auto maintenance and repair services. To schedule service or request more information, call (704) 933-2203.