I’m a Car Expert: 8 Things To Buy for Your Car Before Winter Hits

Wintertime driving is full of challenges. Slick roads, a dead battery or even a car accident could leave you stranded. Preparing for winter with some key essential items can help to keep you safe and ensure that you’re ready to cope with the unexpected.

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Peter Zavarelli, an automotive repair expert at JustAnswer Cars , specializes in diagnosing engine running issues with domestic and European vehicles , as well as electrical diagnosis and repairs . Zavarelli shared some recommendations with GOBankingRates on essential items to buy for your car before winter.

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Ice Scraper and Brush

Zavarelli recommended that if drivers are in areas that experience snow and/or ice during the winter, they keep an ice scraper and snow brush on hand. “You may also want to have a set of driving gloves to keep your hands warm, as the steering wheel can be cold to handle,” he said.

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Jumper Cables

Additionally, Zavarelli advised drivers to keep a heavy-duty set of jumper cables in their vehicle in case of a dead or weak battery. The cables can also help out another driver in need.

Kitty Litter

Freezing rain or ice can make it difficult to get out of a parking spot, so it’s a good idea to keep something in your car that you can use for traction. “The best thing to keep on hand that can be sourced regularly is regular cat litter,” said Zavarelli. “The litter can be spread around the drive tires (the tires that spin when you accelerate) to help gain traction.” He explained that while sand, gravel or dirt can also work, it’s unusually easiest to obtain cat litter.

Tools

Keeping a small toolkit in your vehicle can come in handy not just during the winter, but all year long. “I recommend keeping a flashlight with extra batteries, a flat-head and Phillips screwdriver, a crescent wrench and a hammer,” said Zavarelli. He explained that a small set of sockets and some spare hose clamps can also be helpful.

Cell Phone and Charger

With a cell phone, you can call for help, whether that’s calling the police or your roadside assistance service. Keep in mind that your cell phone battery can drain more quickly in cold weather. Zavarelli recommended drivers keep both a cell phone and a cell phone charger with them so that they can make emergency calls as needed. A power bank can also help boost your battery if you can’t turn on your car to charge your phone.

Snow Tires

Drivers who live in areas that see frequent snow and ice can maximize their vehicle’s traction and overall safety by investing in snow tires. “I recommend studded snow tires and purchasing a tire with long-life tread and aggressive tread, as these tires tend to work the best during the winter months,” said Zavarelli.

Warm Clothes

If your vehicle breaks down, it can take a while for help to arrive. Zavarelli recommended keeping blankets, coats, a hat and gloves on hand so you can stay warm. He also suggested drivers have some snack and drink items in their vehicles to help sustain them while they wait.

Vehicle Service

In addition to stocking up on essential supplies, Zavarelli suggested vehicle owners invest in having their cars serviced before the winter. “I recommend having the engine oil and filter changed, as well as all other manufacturer maintenance items that are needed based on time and mileage since the last service,” he said. “The engine antifreeze is the biggest thing that needs to be checked to make sure the strength of the antifreeze is ready for cold winter months.”

He said that the tire pressure and vehicle lights should also be checked. The wipers, in addition, need to be inspected and should be replaced if they’re worn.

This service appointment can help confirm that your vehicle is ready for wintertime travel, and can also identify any repairs you might need to make to keep your car reliable. It’s also a great time to have your snow tires put on your vehicle before winter.

This article originally appeared on GOBankingRates.com : I’m a Car Expert: 8 Things To Buy for Your Car Before Winter Hits