Car owners encouraged to prep for winter driving

MILLCREEK — Colder temperatures are in the forecast for the next few days, and when temperatures drop, people start to think about their tires, and that is keeping tire dealers very busy.

"We see a big spike in sales," said Jake Burt at Burt Brothers Tires in Millcreek. "Everybody rushing to get changed over."

To reduce the chances of slipping and sliding on the roads, experts say now is a good time to do some preventive maintenance. First check the tires. Burt said the quarter test is still the best way to check the tread of the tires.

"Put the quarter down. If you see the top of his head, you need to change out your tires," he said. "If you see all of his head, that's trouble on that first snowstorm."

That's not safe, and it's time to think about new tires, possibly even winter tires.

"(It's a) night-and-day difference for you," Burt said. "Even the best all-season (tires) versus a dedicated winter tire. Having the best grip is what it's all about in the bad weather."

The tire on the car depends on where a person lives and where they drive, Burt said. If the person rarely runs into deep snow, or doesn't drive to the mountains often, all-season tires should be fine, he said.

"If you're up skiing every weekend, those kinds of things, a winter tire is definitely going to pay off for you in the long run. It actually helps your summer tires last a little longer, too."

Tires are not the only thing to pay attention to this time of year. Burt recommends having the fluids checked, topping off the oil, antifreeze and brake fluid, having the battery tested and making sure the wiper blades aren't worn out.

"Driving home in the dark, even in a crazy storm, if those wipers aren't working well, you're hurting right there," he said.

The nonprofit group Car Care Council also recommends having hoses and belts checked, along with the brake system, exhaust system, and steering and suspension system.

It says checking engine performance, and heating, ventilation and air conditioning systems is also important.

The car isn't the only thing that needs a checkup. Experts recommend people prepare for inclement weather by having certain items in the car, including a blanket, a bottle of water and a power bar in case you get stuck on the side of the road. A flashlight is also helpful. If there is no flashlight in the car, most phones have one, so keeping the cellphone charged is crucial.

Related topics