8 Tips for Winterizing the Car

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With winter rapidly approaching, it’s important to get ready for those snow-covered roads, blistery winds and unpredictable traffic patterns. That’s why I try to take a few basic steps during fall to get my car ready for winter. Today, I’ll be sharing some of my best tips for winterizing a vehicle. From installing the new Goodyear® Assurance® WeatherReady™ tires to keeping a first aid kit in the trunk, keep reading to get your car ready for the elements today!

8 Tips for Winterizing the Car

 

1. Keep an emergency first aid kit in the trunk!
A first aid kit is a component of our trunk throughout the year, but it’s especially important during winter. You can pick up a kit that’s already pre-assembled at the store, but if you’d like to make your own, simply gather the following items:

• gauze of different sizes
• bandages of different sizes
• adhesive tape
• antiseptic wipes
• antibiotic ointment
• small scissors
• thermometer
• analgesic tablets

We keep this kit in our trunk at all times and it really does give me peace of mind.

2. Keep extra blankets in the car!
Whether it’s a road closure or a weak battery, winter may bring all sorts of unexpected vehicle issues. Be prepared for cold-weather delays with extra blankets in the trunk. We keep a stash of blankets in our car throughout winter just in case we find ourselves stuck somewhere for a few hours.

3. Get tires that are suitable for all weather conditions!
We recently got four Goodyear Assurance WeatherReady Tires installed at Sam’s Club. Did you know that these are actually Goodyear’s Best All Weather Traction tires? I love that these tires offer predictable control in all conditions. After all, if the weather takes a turn for the worse, I want to be confident that I can get my family home safely.

The new Goodyear Assurance WeatherReady Tires, available at Sam’s Club, are intended for Mother Nature’s Worst, so you can rest assured that your car can handle any weather conditions that are thrown at it. Keep in mind that while this is not Goodyear’s first all-weather tire, it is currently their best!

These tires boast an even tread wear for longevity and are offered with an impressive warranty. The Goodyear Assurance WeatherReady Tires also contain Evolving Traction Grooves, which, as the tire wears, continue to offer like-new traction… perfect for those slippery roads of winter! Plus, the 3D TredLock® Technology Blades are responsible for providing traction during turns. All of these technological advances are built into the tire, keeping your vehicle ready for rain, sleet or shine – all winter long!

As a long-time member of Sam’s Club, I love that these reliable tires are available at the club at a wonderful everyday value. So I can get these tires conveniently installed while I shop for my household essentials.

Furthermore, there is actually a special promotion going on right now: GET $80 OFF INSTANTLY* ON A SET OF FOUR GOODYEAR® TIRES! Please note that this tire only fits certain vehicles, so look for your vehicle’s tire size at one of the following locations:

• On the sidewall of your tires
• On a sticker on the driver-side door jamb
• In your owner’s manual
• Online using the Sam’s Club Tire Selector Tool

*Save $80 off the displayed retail price. Excludes medium commercial truck tires. Not to be combined with any other offer. Offer can be changed, modified or cancelled at any time. No rain checks. See a Sam’s Club® Tire & Battery Center Associate for eligible tires, details, terms and conditions.

Look for signs for this fabulous promotion at your local Sam’s Club!

We used the Tire Size 205/60R16 for our Ford Fusion, but remember that this tire only fits certain vehicles. Check samsclub.com to find the tire size for your vehicle.

4. Keep a shovel & ice scraper in the trunk!
A few years ago, I remember going to the mall one day during winter and by the time I got out, there were a few inches of snow on the ground. I didn’t have my shovel on hand, so I had to use my gloved hand to wipe the snow / ice off my car. That was not a fun experience! Now, I always keep a shovel & ice scraper in the trunk at all times.

5. Keep a flashlight on board!
Being able to illuminate your space is super important if your car gets stuck at night, especially on a dark road. I love this flashlight, because it uses a crank handle to power it. This means I never have to worry about having batteries on hand.

6. Check your fluids/bulbs/battery!
Before winter arrives, I like to take some time and check various essential components of the vehicle. For example, I assess the health of the battery, as cold weather tends to be taxing on car batteries. I also like to ensure that all bulbs (headlights, high beams, interior cabin lights, etc.) are in proper working order before winter gets going. Finally, I also like to check the status of the various fluids in the car, such as windshield washer fluid, coolant level, power steering fluid and brake fluid.

7. Track vehicle maintenance on a log!
Got the car’s oil changed 3 months ago? Replaced your wiper blades last week? Keep track of the work you get done on your vehicle by logging it all on a Vehicle Maintenance Log. Simply note the date, mileage, description of work, and cost on a piece of paper. This way, you’ll never forget when you’re due for the next oil change. I keep this log taped onto the wall of my garage.

Want to download the Vehicle Maintenance Log I created? Simply click here for the file!

8. Bring extra water & snacks!
I always keep snacks and water on hand in the trunk just in case we get stuck in bad traffic or the car breaks down at an inopportune time. I like to stick with nonperishable snacks, such as crackers and dried fruit. I also always have a few bottles of water, too.

I hope these tips have inspired you to get your car ready for winter. Don’t wait until the weather gets too cold – start now to stay ahead of the game. Don’t forget to take advantage of the limited-time-offer of $80 OFF four Goodyear tires.

Is your car prepared for winter? Are you ready to tackle all extreme weather conditions with Goodyear Assurance WeatherReady Tires? What do you store in your trunk in case of emergencies?

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