Winter can be harsh, depending on your location. Despite the drastic dip in temperature, it can be a season filled with warmth because of all the gatherings and festivities. Despite the feelings of desolation sometimes, because of the dark clouds, it can be a season filled with enchanting frozen
environment.

Unfortunately, winter can be hard on your car.

Winter weather can be messy. The roads can be filled with dirt, road salt, ice, and snow. When this winter debris gets into your car, it could cause corrosion and damage your car.

Winter can also mean difficult and dangerous driving conditions. Ice and snow on the road often cause accidents.

This makes it more important than ever for car maintenance and proper preparation. Aside from these two, you also have to prepare the right car products, so you’re ready for any situation. Here are the products you need to prepare your car for winter.

For Your Tires

Good tires are essential for traveling during winter. The roads are different during this season. This means you need the right kind of tires for winter.

Most cars have all-season tires. They can be used during winter because they can still provide good traction. However, they can work only with a few inches of snow. If you live in a region with a temperature below 45 degrees, that means you get heavy snow. It also means it’s best to fit your car with winter tires.

You’ll also need tire chains. They’ll be useful when you get stuck in the snow. According to the online automotive marketplace,True Car, choose light tire chains that can be installed easily without moving your car. This way, they’ll be easy to put on your tires during emergencies.

Winter Fluids for Cars: Windshield Deicer, Anti-Freeze and Washer Fluid

All cars require different kinds of fluid to ensure they run smoothly. However, during winter, cars require fluids that will not easily freeze up.

Avoid using plain water in your washer fluid tank. It can be harmful to your health and your car. It can freeze and expand in your washer system and cause damages. Use the right washer fluid for winter instead.

When choosing the right washer fluid, read the product label. Different brands have different freezing points. You need to choose a product with low freezing points if you live in a region that gets heavy snow.

You should also get a windshield deicer. It will remove ice from your windshield, which increases your car’s visibility.

The right engine coolant is also an important car fluid for winter. Alsocalled antifreeze, it prevents your car’s engine oil from freezing up. However, you need to read your owner’s manual to know what kind of coolant you should use.

Car Protective Accessories

You’ll need a few car accessories to protect your car from the elements and moisture. Get your car a set of customized rubber floor mats, a windshield cover, and seat protectors.

Install floor coverings with the right fit in your car. Snow, road salt, and dirt can stick to your shoes. This winter debris can get inside your car, leave moisture, and seep into your carpet. You can prevent this from happening if you have the right floor mats.

You should also use seat protectors to avoid moisture getting into your seats. Moisture inside cars can cause molds and rust. Mold is harmful to your health, while rust can corrode your car quickly.

Use a windshield cover, too. This can double as protection to minimize the snow and ice that can build up on your windshield, according to Car and Driver magazine.

Car Wax

When rust gets into your car, it can be expensive to repair. Winter can quicken the speed of corrosion because of all the deicing chemicals, road salts, and snow that can stick to your car. Avoid or minimize rust by applying the right wax to your car.

Wash your car with a shampoo that has a protective formula, then apply wax. These two will double the coating on your car to protect it against winter debris.

Apply wax on your headlamps and taillights, too. This will prevent winter debris, which can affect their visibility, from sticking to them.

Enjoy the Scenery, But Be Careful

Winter can be a great time to take your car out for a ride. The landscape can be beautiful. However, winter driving doesn’t only mean having the right car products to keep your car in top shape. Safety should be your priority.

Aside from having the products discussed above, prepare a survival and emergency kit in your car. This way, you’ll have peace of mind while enjoying your winter wonderland.