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While we are having drastic swings in the weather from warm to cold, winter is here, ready or not. We may not have the harsher temperatures and weather systems common in the Northern regions of the country, we still need to protect our vehicles and make some adjustments for basic safety in the winter. Pitt Stop Detail & Auto Sales has tips for you to winterize your vehicle today.

1. Tire Pressure. While we don’t need to change our tires or worry about tire chains much in this region, we do need to check our tire pressure. According to Popular Mechanics, “air molecules pack together more closely when the temperature drops.” By checking and adjusting your tire pressure, you can ensure safety on the road as your tire has better traction and is more durable. This traction is important for both acceleration and braking. Those brakes are important all the time, but especially when there is the possibility of rain, snow, or ice on the road. What’s more, properly inflated tires can help your fuel consumption.

2. Prepare for a Freeze. We do get enough freezing temperatures that you need to have some preparation done for the winter months. Keep your gas tank around the halfway mark or above in case there are issues on the road or with inclement weather. Have basic tools ready to de-ice your vehicle. Consider winterized washer fluid and winterized wiper blades to help with icy temperatures too. You should already have a basic emergency kit in your car with first aid, a blanket, an extra phone charger, water, and other essentials on hand. You can add hand warmers and other cold winter gear in case you are stranded while waiting for help.

3. Check the Electrics. Get your car into the shop or check the systems yourself for some of the basic electrics. Make sure your headlights are functioning, especially with the increased darkness. If your heater (or heated seats) are less efficient, see if there is something your local mechanic can fix for you. Run a quick test on your battery to make sure you have plenty of charge left to go and make sure you have jumper cables on back up.

4. Wash and wax. While our roads aren’t usually salted in this part of the country, you would want a protectant in place for your car in the event that happened. What’s more, you want your car to be washed and waxed by our Pitt Stop Detail & Auto Sales team to make sure it is protectedhttps://pittstopdetailandautosales.com/detailing/exterior-detailing from the general dirt and grime that can come with rain showers that are sure to hit over the next few months.

For our help in winterizing your vehicle, set an appointment with Pitt Stop Detail & Auto Sales today. You can be safe and warm as you drive over the hills and through the woods to wherever you may go this winter and throughout.