3 tips to help drivers avoid cold weather mishaps

With the majority of U.S. consumers back on the road driving every day, unexpected weather changes and frigid temperatures offer an opportunity to provide support for cold weather car care and maintenance care. In addition to routine maintenance and repairs done in the shop, service departments can be instrumental in helping their customers prepare for wet, snowy, and icy weather conditions. Properly preparing for cold weather, can help prevent drivers from experiencing unexpected car trouble when the temperature drops or they’re faced with less than ideal road conditions. 

Here are three tips that service departments can share with their customers to help them be prepared while on the road during cold weather.

Keep extra wiper blades and windshield fluid handy

These low-cost supplies are essential to maintaining visibility and safe driving in ice and snow. Service departments can advise drivers of the proper wiper blade size for their vehicle, how to quickly change them should one break or stop working well, and where to pour antifreeze windshield fluid under the hood. Keeping spare supplies in the trunk can be a great benefit should drivers encounter unexpected, inclement weather. Consider including gloves, a blanket, and extra water as well.

Check tire pressure – and don’t forget the spare!

Most drivers neglect to check their tire pressure regularly, despite the industry recommendation to do so at least once a month. Remind drivers that tire pressure drops as the outside temperature drops – typically 1 to 2 psi for every 10 degrees. Because only 32% of U.S. drivers know the recommended PSI for their vehicle, according to Hankook’s Gauge Index, help drivers find this information for their vehicle, as well as how to check the tire pressure, and add air when necessary. 

It’s also important to be prepared for the worst. Should a tire need to be replaced while on the road, drivers should know how to put on a spare in order to get to the nearest trusted service center. When customers are in for maintenance, service departments can ensure that their vehicle has a functioning spare tire, and encourage them to be ready to use it, just in case.

Install the optimal tires for cold weather driving

Drivers have many options for tires, and depending on where they live, some drivers will benefit from an all-season tire, while others will need an all-weather tire or even a dedicated cold weather tire. Having the right tire for the road ahead can make all the difference in terms of safety and performance.

At the end of the day, helping customers prepare for unexpected car trouble builds trust and enhances their overall experience with the shop. This leads to loyalty, and ultimately, business growth – not just during the cold weather, but throughout the year. 

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