Tips to keep your vehicle maintained, drive in snow during Michigan winter weather

Marina Johnson, Detroit Free Press
·2 min read

As a blast of arctic air puts Michigan in a deep freeze, with weather forecasts calling for some of the coldest temperatures of the year yet, the AAA auto club is offering tips to keep motorists on the road and their vehicles in running order.

Winterize your car

It's a little late to get your vehicle serviced, with a professional examining, among other things, the battery, brakes and spark plugs to make sure they are in good condition. A professional could also switch your car to winter tires for better support on the icy roads and add a winter windshield wiper that is heavier and prevents ice from collecting.

But, there are a few things you can do on your own, including:

  • Keeping the gas tank at least half full to avoid gas line freeze-up.

  • Making sure the windshield washer fluid is topped off and is the solvent with a low freezing point.

  • Checking the engine coolant, and ensuring it, too, is cold-weather proof and also has a low freezing point.

  • Parking in a garage or wind-protected area, or putting a tarp over the hood.

  • Placing a plastic trash bag between the door or window glass and the frame, to prevent it from freezing shut.

  • And postponing that car wash until temperatures rise above freezing.

Jimmy Parker cleans snow off his car at his home on Sunday, Jan. 31, 2021, in Detroit. "I like the fresh air. It's quiet. No one's around," he said.
Jimmy Parker cleans snow off his car at his home on Sunday, Jan. 31, 2021, in Detroit. "I like the fresh air. It's quiet. No one's around," he said.

Have an emergency kit

Items to have in your car:

  • Non-perishable food and bottled water.

  • A first-aid kit and medications.

  • Extra hats, scarves, gloves, coats, socks and boots.

  • Blankets and sleeping bags.

  • Flashlight, shovel, and a compass.

More:Best ways to survive the Michigan snow

More:Michigan may be holding on to your unclaimed money: How to get it

How do you safely drive in the snow?

Driving in the winter can be scary and it’s important to be aware of your surroundings on the road.

  • Give yourself space. It takes longer to stop in the winter so give plenty of room between your vehicle and others.

  • Don’t overcorrect: If you start to slide, don’t slam on the brakes and turn the wheel. Instead, ride it out.

  • Clean the snow off your car: Snow and ice is a dangerous driving hazards.

Staff writer Frank Witsil contributed.

This article originally appeared on Detroit Free Press: Winter driver checklist: Vehicle maintenance, driving in snow