Never fails to get the first snowstorm of the year in Montana by the first part of October. The snow should be a reminder to all the things we need to do to prepare for the winter months. Check out this list of 5 things to do to get your car ready for winter. Getting stranded or having an accident in the summer is one thing, but at least you don't have to worry about the cold. Take the time to prepare as you travel in Montana during the winter. If an accident does happen then we're ready to help you repair your vehicle at Revive Auto Body & Paint, but we certainly would prefer you to be safe and cautious while out driving the roads.
Worn tires and winter driving create a particularly dangerous combination. They increase your stopping distance and decrease stability on wet roads. It's one thing to put off getting new tires when it is spring and summer but come fall in Montana then you are just increasing your chances for problems. Reduce your risk of an accident while driving during the icy winter conditions by making sure your tires have adequate tire tread.
Car batteries have a limited life. Don’t wait for yours to fail and leave you stranded. Once your vehicle is over 75,000 miles or every 5 years then you need to regularly check your battery. You can check the condition of the battery, starter, and entire charging system with a computerized battery tester. Numerous shops like Batteries Plus Bulbs and AutoZone will check this out for you for free. You should also be receiving a free battery test anytime you get your oil changed at a shop around town.
Ordinary wiper blades get packed with snow, causing the blade to streak or miss large swaths of your windshield. Manufacturers do make specialized winter wiper blades to help with clearing away ice and snow. The general rule though is to make sure your wiper blades are in good condition so you can see while you're driving.
Might as well prepare now that if you must leave your vehicle outside during the winter, then you'll need a few extra minutes each morning to scrape off the frost from your vehicle. Ice scrappers tend to get misplaced during the summer months, but they are just in the way. Come winter though you'll be grabbing this tool often each day you need to drive your vehicle.
No one plans to get stranded during the winter, but wouldn't you rather be a little prepared? When stranded you need to stay warm. Stash an extra hat and pair of gloves in your car so you can ward off frostbite while getting your car out of a ditch, changing a tire, or looking under the hood. You may need to wait a while for help, so keep a spare blanket in the car to hunker down for the duration.
Ready to bring professional experience and guidance to your next project? Give us a call or send us an email and we will get back to you as soon as possible!