As the cold season sets across the country, it can be hard to believe an Arizona winter is much to worry about. After all, Arizona is known for its sunny, clear skies. The fact is that our winters pose real problems.
Preparing your vehicle is crucial when it comes to safe winter driving. Here are some steps that will help you get your car ready for Arizona winters.
COVID-19 Safe Driving
COVID-19 is affecting us all, and the more cases in your area or where you’re driving to, the more you risk getting infected or infecting others. Traveling with gloves and masks is the best defense (besides social distancing) against COVID-19. If you are traveling by yourself or with healthy family members, you don’t need to wear a mask while driving. If you’re not traveling alone in cases like carpooling or ride-sharing, you definitely should wear a mask and gloves. Keep a bottle of hand sanitizer handy as well.
Properly Inflated Tires
Low temperatures can lower tire pressure, which causes dangerous driving conditions. Factors like Arizona fires can affect the terrain, and when rain hits or snow melts, debris can slide onto the road causing hazardous driving situations. Ensure your vehicle can stand up to these road hazards by having the tires (including the spare), properly inflated.
Dealing with Congested Traffic Conditions
During the winter months, we’re likely to have more people – not only snowbirds but also those who have moved here from bigger cities, so roads may be more congested. When you do get behind the wheel, drive carefully and defensively, keep an eye out for other drivers, and don’t speed. Having extra water in the car is a good idea as well, along with having plenty of gas in the car.
Have the Vehicle Inspected
To make sure your car is ready for Arizona winter, have a basic vehicle inspection performed by a licensed mechanic. Having an inspection performed will help make sure there’s nothing wrong with your vehicle. They’ll check all the fluids, perform an oil change if necessary, check the tires, battery, windshield wipers, brakes, belts, hoses, suspension and steering, safety lights, etc.
Roadside Assistance
Protect yourself from unknown problems by signing up with a roadside assistance program. Whether you get a flat, run out of gas or your car breaks down, the right roadside assistance program will get you back on the road. With Hi-Tech Car Care, you get roadside assistance for free with any $25 or more service.
Keep an Emergency Kit
You should always keep an emergency kit handy in your vehicle. If your vehicle breaks down or if you get in an accident, you’ll want to be prepared. Your emergency kit should contain a first aid kit along with food, water, a blanket, a flashlight, and other emergency essentials.
Invest in a Car Bra
There are many protective benefits of installing a car bra. Rain, slushy gravel, and other debris from the road can cause a lot of damage to a vehicle’s exterior. If you use a car bra, the debris will slide off the hood, mirrors, bumpers, and fenders, without causing damage. You can have a bra professionally installed, tailored to fit your car or check out DIY options on the market. Having one professionally installed will probably deliver the best results.
When you’re getting your car ready for Arizona winter, take it to the experts. Contact us today.
