AN auto expert has provided crucial tips on ways drivers can keep their vehicles ready for the winter and avoid paying thousands in repair fees.
The frigid temperature and snowy roads can create hazardous driving conditions that can lead to fatal accidents.
In 2022, over 150,000 traffic accidents occurred when there were snow or sleet conditions, according to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration.
With the winner in full swing, Bill Nalu, the president of Interstate Auto Care in Detroit, shared his three tips that drivers should consider during the cold months.
Drivers should be aware of their vehicle’s engine fluids.
“Fluid maintenance is by far the least expensive way to keep that vehicle up and keep the costs down,” Nalu said KNXV-TV.
Routinely checking your vehicle’s engine oil can save you thousands of dollars in repairs and prevent the engine from overheating, wearing down, or completely breaking down.
“Make sure the maintenance is up on it to keep it running efficiently and make it last long,” driver Eddie Douglas agreed.
The second thing drivers should always keep in mind is the life of their vehicle’s tires.
Lack of traction in your tires can lead to accidents and the inability to brake quickly enough.
Nalu recommends that drivers inspect their tires before big snow storms and during pothole season.
“If the snow starts to fall, if we get ice on the ground, that’s when a lot of time tire stores get inundated with people,” Nalu told KNXV-TV.
“I always think to myself why, why would you risk spending thousands of dollars on collision when you have hundreds of dollars involved in putting in some tires that are going to give you some grip.”
Lastly, Nalu encourages drivers to build a good relationship with a local mechanic.
“Absolutely, because you have to have somebody you can trust,” one driver told the outlet.
A second added, “It’s extremely important.
“We have a fantastic place that we go to in Rochester Hills Tire in downtown, and they’re an excellent service company, and they stand by their work.
“We couldn’t be more pleased.”
Drivers of newer car models that come equipped with advanced driver assistance systems are also advised to have them inspected before driving them this winter.
ADAS are technologies that help drivers operate their vehicles safely while behind the wheel.
Several new car models are equipped with high-tech features, such as adaptive cruise control, blind spot monitoring, driver alertness detection, and parking assistance.
More winter car advice from AAA
The American Automobile Association shared advice on preparing your car for the winter months.
AAA gave the following tips for drivers getting ready for cold weather:
- Get your brakes checked
- Check tire pressure
- Test your car’s battery
- Apply water repellent to your windshield
- Check antifreeze levels
- Clean your headlights
- Have emergency tools available like jumper cables, salt, and an ice scraper
