Winter Weather Car Check-up

Winter weather is upon us!  Here in Portland, Oregon we've got frosty conditions and a nearby mountain full of snow for fun winter sports.  A few winters ago, some friends and I made the mistake of driving to the mountain without a set a jumper cables.  After a full day of snowboarding, it was devastating to find we had left the lights on the car mistakenly and in sub-30 degree temperatures our car wouldn't start.  After a half hour of panic, a Good Samaritan stopped by to give us a jump.  Now I always travel with jumper cables, extra blankets and some food and water in my car.

A little preparation means you won't have to repeat my mistake: make sure your car is ready for emergencies with the Ready Set Go Kits handy winter weather car check-up.

Vehicle Checklist:

• If you need a service, get one now before you find yourself stranded on a snowy mountain pass.
• Are your heater and defroster working properly?
• Is your battery fully charged?  Check battery age and make certain the connecting cables are not loose or corroded.
• Test all lights, replace if needed.
• Keep wipers clean and in good condition.
• Use antifreeze that is good to -25 degrees.
• Check your tires, do they still have good traction and are they properly inflated?  Check your spare tire as well.
• Carry chains or use traction tires.
• Keep an auto emergency kit in your vehicle.

Oregon Department of Transportation recommends you stock your car with:

• Rechargeable flashlight
• Extra food and water
• Flares
• Tools: jack, lug wrench, shovel
• Blanket/sleeping bag(s)
• First aid kit
• Pocket knife
• Matches or lighter
• Battery jumper cables
• Ice scraper and snow brush
• Paper towels
• Extra washer fluid
• Chains or traction tires
• Extra warm clothes, boots, hat and gloves
• Cell phone and car adapter
• Road maps
• A full fuel tank

 ** Don't have these items?  Get started with the Ready Set Go Kits Road Warrior Auto Kit.

Safe and happy winter travels from Ready Set Go Kits!