Winter weather prep: Is your car ready for the cold?
AAA experts share tips to ensure your vehicle is winter-ready
LEXINGTON, Ky. (ABC 36 NEWS NOW) — With winter weather on the way, experts say now is the time to prepare your car for the cold months ahead.
AAA Bluegrass advises drivers to check essential parts of their vehicles to avoid unexpected issues in snow and icy conditions. The first place to start? Your tires. Fleet Manager Randy Tate explains that tire tread plays a crucial role in maintaining control on slick roads.
“It’s basically like a big smooth footprint,” said Tate. “When you hit the brakes or turn, your car could keep going straight without proper tread.”
To check your tire’s tread, Tate suggests using a simple quarter test. Insert the coin into the tread. If the top of Washington’s head is visible, it’s time for new tires.
Another common issue during cold weather is battery failure.
“You might be fine in normal weather,” Tate said. “But on a 20-degree day, that’s when everyone starts calling us needing a battery service.”
AAA experts also recommend keeping a winter emergency kit in your car. Items like warm clothing, water, a first aid kit, and snow tools can be lifesavers if you get stranded.
