Winter is here, and with it comes the bone-chilling cold that can wreak havoc on your car. As the temperatures drop and frosty mornings become the norm, it’s crucial to prepare your vehicle for the impending freeze. One essential aspect of winter car care is removing certain items from your car to ensure its safety and functionality during the cold months.
In this article, we’ll take you through the top items you should remove from your car before the big freeze, offering valuable insights to help you keep your vehicle in top condition.
Why Remove Items from Your Car?
Before we delve into the specifics, let’s understand why removing certain items from your car during winter is essential:
- Weight Distribution: A heavy car can be more challenging to control on icy or snow-covered roads. By removing unnecessary items, you can improve weight distribution and enhance your vehicle’s stability.
- Emergency Access: In case of an emergency, quick access to essential items like a spare tire or emergency kit can make a significant difference in your safety.
- Fuel Efficiency: Extra weight in your car can lead to reduced fuel efficiency. Removing unnecessary items can help you save on gas and reduce your carbon footprint.
- Visibility: Clear visibility is critical during winter driving. Removing clutter from your car can help you maintain a clear line of sight.
Now, let’s go through the items you should consider removing from your car this winter:
1. Summer Tires
If you still have summer tires on your vehicle, it’s time to switch to winter tires. Winter tires offer better traction and control on icy and snowy roads, significantly improving your safety during winter driving. So, before the big freeze hits, make sure to replace those summer tires.
2. Excess Weight
Take a look in your trunk and backseat. Are there items you’ve been carrying around for no reason? It’s time to declutter your car. Remove unnecessary items like sports equipment, tools, or other heavy objects. Reducing your car’s weight will help improve fuel efficiency and overall handling.
3. Water Bottles
Leaving water bottles in your car during freezing temperatures can lead to an unpleasant surprise – cracked bottles and a mess to clean up. Empty your car of all liquids, including water, soda, and windshield washer fluid. Keep only what’s necessary to avoid unwanted spills and damage.
4. Medications and Valuables
Extreme cold can affect the potency of certain medications, so it’s wise to remove them from your car. Additionally, never leave valuable items like electronics, wallets, or bags in your car during the winter. Cold temperatures can damage these items, and they may also attract thieves.
5. Non-Essential Tools
While it’s a good idea to keep a basic toolkit in your car for emergencies, consider removing non-essential tools that you won’t need during the winter months. This will help reduce weight and free up space for other important items.
6. Snow and Ice Accumulation
Before winter sets in, make sure to remove any snow or ice accumulation from your car’s exterior. Snow and ice can obstruct your view and create hazardous driving conditions. Additionally, it’s crucial to clear your car’s roof to prevent snow from flying off and potentially causing accidents on the road.
7. Summer Accessories
Items like sunshades, beach towels, and flip-flops have no place in your car during the winter. Store them away until the warmer months return. Removing these items will not only declutter your car but also make it easier to find what you need when you need it.
Conclusion
Preparing your car for winter is essential for your safety and the longevity of your vehicle. By removing these items before the big freeze, you’ll be better equipped to navigate the challenging winter conditions.
Remember, a well-prepared car not only ensures your safety but also contributes to a more pleasant winter driving experience. Stay safe and enjoy the beauty of winter with peace of mind knowing that your car is ready to face the freeze head-on.
