Fall and Winter Driving Tips from Georgia's Clean Air Force

 

With fall in full swing and winter looming, it is important for motorists to be mindful of changing weather and temperatures and their potential effects on vehicles.

“Keeping cars well-maintained facilitates cleaner vehicle operations, which leads to better air quality for Georgians” said Michael Odom, Mobile & Area Sources Manager, Georgia Environmental Protection Division. “Georgia’s Clean Air Force encourages motorists to take some time this fall to attend to car care basics for cold weather driving.”
 
Here are some suggestions to ready your vehicle for the upcoming months:
 
Check the lights. Fewer daylight hours and the potential for winter precipitation are compelling reasons to ensure that all vehicle lights, including headlights, taillights, flashers, and brake lights, are in good working order.

Check the brakes. Both brake lines and brake fluid can be impacted by cold weather. Have them inspected to make sure they’re ready for the season.

Check the tires. Tires lose air pressure more quickly during cold weather than during warmer weather. Low air pressure contributes to lower gas mileage, decreased tire lifespan, and longer stopping times. Commit to checking tire air pressure on a regular basis.

Check the heater and defroster. You will undoubtedly use both more frequently during colder months, and they are essential for comfort and safety.

Check the battery. Freezing temperatures can cause a vehicle’s battery to lose strength. Check your battery now and attempt to keep it adequately charged during the winter. A fully charged battery has much more protection against the cold than a mostly depleted one. 

Stock a roadside emergency kit. Include items such as gloves, blankets, flashlights, a first aid kit, an ice scraper, reflective warning triangles, bottled water, jumper cables, and a portable phone charger.

Check the wipers. Make sure your vehicle’s wipers are doing their job before heading into the chill of winter. Don’t ask them to do more than their job, though. Use the car’s defroster and an ice scraper, not the wipers, to remove frost, ice, or snow from the windshield.