Winter is always getting one day closer, and regardless of whether you stay around Springfield or venture out past Decatur, it’s wise to prepare for winter driving conditions. You never know whether the weekend is going to bring a fresh dusting or record-breaking snow. There are a few things you should do to get you and your car ready for winter. Here Green Dodge explains how to prep your car for winter and help you make sure that you’re getting everything you need in one place. If you still have any questions, then don’t hesitate to contact us.

Winter Car Prep Tips

These are some essential winter car prep tips to keep you safe on Chatham roads to make sure that you know how to prep a car for winter:

• Check your battery: Have a professional, like the Green Dodge service center team, inspect your battery’s cables and fluid.
• Check your tire tread: Be sure to inspect your tires and rotate them. If they are looking a bit bald, make an appointment with our service center.
• Fill your tires to the right PSI: The wrong amount of air pressure can be dangerous on Rochester streets.
• Consider getting snow tires: Switching to snow tires is quick and easy. If you live in an area that gets heavy snow, snow tires can help you keep control on icy terrain.
• Make sure your heater works: Think about what would happen if you were stuck in your vehicle for an extended period of time without heat! Having a working heater can not only help keep you comfortable but could potentially save your life.
• Change your oil and antifreeze: Routine maintenance will help prevent any car troubles and getting stranded during winter driving.

Winter Emergency Car Kit

Another winter car prep tip is to put together an emergency kit. Hopefully, you won’t ever need it around Rochester, but if you do, you’ll be glad you took the time to put it together. You can also buy a winter emergency kit from the Green Dodge parts center. These are items to add to your emergency kit:

• Paper or some sort of fire starter
• Matches or a lighter
• Flashlight
• Paper map (not digital)
• Fire extinguisher
• Flares
• Boots and socks
• Battery cables
• Basic first-aid kit
• Hand/feet warmer packets
• Gloves
• Blanket
• Reserve power bank for your cell phone
• Snacks
• Backup batteries for your flashlight
• Flat tire kit
• Book (to pass the time if you’re stranded)
• Water
• Cell phone charger
• Rain poncho
• Rope
• Safety vest
• Ice scraper
• Warm hat and scarf
• Warning signaling cones
• Portable shovel
• Rags
• Extra winter coat
• Mirror (to attract help from the air)
• Ice scraper

Remember, your emergency kit might also come in handy if you end up helping other Springfield drivers.

Green Dodge is Always at Your Service

Keep your new vehicle in tip-top shape with a service check at the Green Dodge service center. You can schedule a service appointment online, as well as order car parts and a winter emergency kit.