For Safety’s Sake, Consider Winterizing Your Car

Now that the weather is finally starting to catch up with the date here in New Jersey, it’s time to really think about finally starting to winterize your car.  Cold weather is upon us and those bald tires and lack of deicer could cause your winter driving to be more like winter staying put if you are not careful.  Plus, if you are looking to sell your vehicle in the future, auto consumers like to know that your vehicle has been properly cared for during all seasons.

Preparing your car for the winter can be easy if you follow these simple steps to turn your car into a winter vehicle.

• Check your fluids.  Make sure your vehicle is using fluids that can keep your engine running in cold weather.
• Check your tires.  Depending on where you plan on driving, you may be able to drive using all weather treads, but if you live in an area that does not get plowed regularly or is susceptible to extreme weather, you may want to invest in snow tires or chains for your wheels.
• Add a proper ice scraper and deicer to your trunk.  Don’t let your windshield wipers and defrosters do all the work.  Scrape off as much snow and ice as you can before switching on the wipers.  The snow and ice can damage your wiper blades easily causing them to fail at their regular job of keeping your windshield clear.
• Keep an emergency kit including water, a warm blanket, and other emergency supplies on hand if you get stuck on the side of the road.

Lastly, contact us to review your auto insurance policy to make sure you have the coverage you need during the winter months.  February 1^st is Car Insurance Day, so be sure to call and find out how your car insurance can protect you all year long.