It’s a given that driving during the winter isn’t like driving during the rest of the year. Safety and car care are major issues, so there are necessary precautions to take! Here are four great ones to start with.

1.) Take Care of Your Gas Tank

Depending on the circumstances, you can get condensation on the inside of your fuel tank. In the frigid winter temperatures, this condensation can freeze. One simple way to prevent and/or reduce this is to always keep your tank on the fuller side.
You should also talk to your auto mechanic about putting gas line antifreeze in your car’s tank every so often. This makes the water mix with the gas, so that it can’t freeze and will simply be burned off.

2.) Be Prepared for Winter’s Precipitation

Your car doesn’t handle snow the same way it handles rain, so don’t assume that your current wipers and windshield wiper fluid will suffice. The Weather Channel suggests that we buy windshield wipers that are made with a protective shield, in addition to winter wiper fluid that is made with a deicer agent. Test them out before you hit the roads to make sure they don’t leave any smudges behind and can handle wiping your windshield at high speed.

3.) Give Your Tires Some TLC

According to Transport Quebec Safety Tips, “winter tires that are in good condition can shorten braking distances by as much as 25%.” This means that your wheels should be in A+ condition for the winter months. Frequently check the pressure, as the colder temperatures can reduce it at a quicker rate. Also, it’s not a good idea (during any season) to be driving on tires that are bald.
Consult your mechanic once again regarding the pros and cons of all-season tires versus winter tires; it’s not as obvious of a decision as you’d think.
It’s also a good idea to have tire chains ready in your car in case driving conditions become especially dangerous. In fact, in some regions, it’s required! Chains make it easier to stop in the snow, in addition to helping with traction. Drive with caution, however, because chains (like everything else) have their limits. You must drive slowly, as in approximately 30 mph—which is a good idea in dangerous weather conditions anyway!
In addition, be sure that you’re not leaving them on for too, too long. Frequently check the chains to make sure they’re still tight; you might even tighten them a little bit after your first drive with them, just to be safe. Never drive with loose chains!

4.) Keep Your Vehicle Looking Pretty

During the fall before the harsh winter weather hits, give your vehicle a good cleaning—inside and out. The elements can affect it all. Wax your car, too! This provides a protective layer and can help battle rusting and the drying out, peeling, and flaking of paint.
Finally, take care of any cracks or chips in your windows. The cold temperatures, frost, and ice can cause these little boo-boos to spread and expand, making them a huge problem to fix later on. Save yourself the time and money and deal with it now!
A few more tips to take with you? Always remember to give yourself plenty of time to stop; don’t follow the car in front of you too closely; be careful where you park in case it’s an area a snow plow needs to get to; and give your car enough time to warm up before you drive up. Stay safe, friends!


Sandy Allain writes for Cordoba Travel Guide where you can find out more about how to protect your assets when travelling.