As colder days are quickly upon us, there are many ways to make sure your vehicle is in tip-top shape.

It’s important to know what to check when the seasons change, and Rockingham Insurance is here with helpful tips to winterize your vehicle.

Check your battery

Colder temperatures make your battery work a little harder during those early-morning commutes. Most auto parts stores provide free battery checks if you visit them during this time of the year.

Change your wiper blades

Did you know wiper blades are only good for a year? Upgrading to a heavy-duty version during the winter months is a great way to deter freezing ice.

Check your belts and hoses

When cold weather becomes the norm, it can significantly weaken your belts and hoses. Get a head start on preparing by checking your belts/hoses and replacing them if needed.

Change your tires

According to the U.S. Tire Manufactures Association if temperatures in your town average 32 degrees or below during the winter months, you should switch to winter tires. These tires grip the road and provide better traction in snowy and icy conditions.

Maintain tire pressure

For every ten-degree temperature drop, your tires lose 10 PSI (pounds per square inch). Don’t wait for your pressure light to come on – check the pressure proactively or once a week. The recommended pressure is generally between 30 and 35, but consult your vehicle’s manual for details.

Keep washer fluid full

Snowstorms can significantly increase your use of washer fluid. Checking these levels about once a week is recommended to ensure you’re running at the right level.

Pack a winter safety kit

If you’re stranded on the side of the road, preparing a safety kit could save (or improve) your life. Some suggested items are:

• First Aid Kit
• Pack of matches
• Flashlight and new batteries
• Ice scraper
• Extra sweatshirts, pants, shoes & socks
• Bottles of water
• Nonperishable food items
• Jumper cables
• Cell phone charger
• Sandbag and a shovel
• Extra Engine Oil & Antifreeze
• ALWAYS keep the gas tank at least half-full. Keeping a fuller gas tank is more important in the winter due to the risk of being stranded or breaking down.

Be prepared for winter emergencies with these safety tips:

• Do not abandon your car for risk of losing sight of it
• Do not keep your car running for long periods. Instead, turn it on long enough to stay warm, and then turn it off again to avoid carbon monoxide poisoning
• Put your dome lights on to attract attention

As temperatures get colder, winterizing your vehicle is an essential process. Not only will you extend your vehicle’s life, but you will also save money in the long run. Contact a local Rockingham Insurance agent today to learn more about how to protect your vehicle from winter weather.