As much as we may not want to think about it, winter driving season is right around the corner. Freezing temperatures, icy roads and heavy snowfall all add up to extra driving hazards, whether you are taking a long trip, or running errands in your neighborhood.

Get ready for winter driving with these simple winter driving checks:

• Check Your Tire Tread & Pressure 
  It is important to check your tire pressure regularly, including the pressure of your spare, but it is especially important to check it before winter sets in. Find your vehicle’s correct pressure level in your owner’s manual or on the sticker located on the driver-side door jamb. You should also check your tire tread depth. Tires should have at least 2/32″ of depth to be safe.
• Fill Your Antifreeze Tank
  During the winter months it is important to maintain a full tank with a 50/50 mix of water and antifreeze. Clean, quality antifreeze will deliver the winter protection your vehicle needs.
• Test and Inspect Your Battery
  Extreme cold temperatures can degrade car batteries internally and accelerate the rate of battery terminal corrosion. This will lead to a battery that is more likely to die. Don’t risk getting stranded! Check your battery cables to make sure they are clean and firmly attached to the terminals.
• Check Your Washer Fluid Level
  Since salt, slush, and snow continually bombard our windshields in winter, we end up using much more washer fluid that usual. Fill the windshield washer fluid tank with a winter cleaning formula that contains enough antifreeze components to keep it from freezing.
• Inspect Wiper Blades
  Be sure that your wipers are in good shape so they can do their job. The blades should make full contact with the glass to thoroughly clean it. If you live in an area with heavy snow fall, consider installing winter wiper blades that wrap the blade frame in a rubber boot to reduce ice and snow buildup, and promote good contact between the blade and the glass.

In addition to taking these maintenance steps, always take it slowly and drive safely in seriously hazardous winter driving conditions!

Need help with winter driving preparation and winter tires? Stop by your neighborhood Raben Tire location!