If you’ve braved an Oklahoma winter before, you know that the weather can get ugly fairly quickly. From blistering cold to an abundance of snow, our winter months are cold and blustery, and they’re approaching fast. Whether you’re a first-time car owner or you’re new to the area, there are a few tips you need to know about preparing your vehicle for winter in Oklahoma. Getting your car cold weather-ready is an important part of keeping it running its best. Use these five car care tips to ensure you and your vehicle are ready for the cold months ahead. 
Check Your Tires and Tire Pressure
Often overlooked, checking your tires and tire pressure can be the difference between getting home safely or being stranded. The pressure in your tires will likely drop as the weather cools, and having the proper amount of pressure will help you get the best traction. Driving in snowy, wet conditions will also be harder if your tires don’t have sufficient tread. Replace or inflate your tires as often as needed to keep you and your passengers safe.
Make Sure You Can See Clearly
Being able to see clearly, especially during a winter storm, is important to your safety. Make sure your defroster is working properly so that you’re able to melt any ice or snow that may build up on your windshield. Replacing your windshield wipers is an easy step you can take to make sure you’re able to clear your windshield. Windshield wiper fluid should also be kept full.
Get Your Battery Checked
As cold weather approaches, a good way to be prepared is to have your battery checked. The only way to get an accurate measurement of your battery’s power is to have a professional check it for you. Colder weather can be hard on batteries, especially those more than three years old. Get your battery charged or replaced before winter hits.
Change Your Oil
Changing your oil regularly will keep your engine running smoothly. Oil tends to get thicker as the temperature drops, and if it gets too thick, your engine won’t run properly. Oil changes are too often neglected, but during the winter months, you can’t afford to skip this step or it might create more or even worse problems.
Prepare An Emergency Kit
Don’t get stuck on the side of the road during a winter storm unprepared. To help keep you as safe and as warm as possible, you should prepare an emergency kit to keep inside your vehicle. Things such as boots, blankets, and extra gloves will help keep you warm. Pack jumper cables, kitty litter or sand, and a small shovel in case your battery dies or you get stuck. High-energy snacks such as granola bars and nuts might also come in handy.
If you need help getting your vehicle winter weather-ready or have any other questions, please don’t hesitate to reach out to us here at Jim Norton Chevrolet. Our knowledgeable staff members are ready to help you take care of your vehicle the right way. Keeping up with maintenance and staying on top of it now will ensure your vehicle stays running in tip-top condition all winter long.


