The winter elements can be demanding to your car, and it is typically this time of year that you do a lot of traveling to see family and friends. That is why it is essential that you adequately prepare your Honda for a winter road trip. USA Today offers some insightful tips on how to prepare for a road trip in the winter.
Prepare for Where You’re Going
Before you set out on the open road, you should prepare for where you are going. Check the weather and the road conditions for the area you are visiting as well as the routes you are taking along the way. Knowing the conditions of the roads can help you plan when you need to leave for your trip as well as estimate how long the trip would take.
Check Your Tires & Fluid Levels
As the only point of contact with the road, your tires must be in excellent shape as you traverse the roads with winter conditions like snow, ice, sleet, and cold rain. Do not get on the road this winter without checking the tread on the tires or the air in your tires.
While you are checking your tires, you should also inspect the fluid levels in your Honda. The top two you should check are your oil as well as your antifreeze. You may not know the importance of antifreeze, but it helps keep your engine’s temperature balanced so that it will not freeze in cold weather.
Check Your Wipers & Lights
Of course, the winter season is the darkest time of the year. You may find yourself on the road at night or in the dark morning hours. Even in the daytime, you may have trouble seeing the road as the winter brings a lot of rain as well as sleet and snow. Make sure that your vision is not impaired by checking both your windshield wipers and all the lights on your car. These include the headlights, taillights, turn signals, brake lights, and high beams.
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Pack Essentials
It is an understatement to say that it gets cold in the winter. You probably bring your overcoat, scarf, and gloves into the car with you whenever you go out during the cold season. While you should have these essential items with you, it is advised not to wear them as you drive. The thick fabrics can restrict your movements, making you not able to drive as smoothly and confidently as you should. Have them in the car with you. Once you get out of the vehicle, you can bundle up for wherever you are headed.
Along with packing your outerwear, you may also want to pack an emergency kit that has some roadside essentials like a flashlight, extra blankets, snacks, a first aid kit, etc. While you never want to plan for being stuck on the road during the winter season, it is a good rule of thumb to have these necessary items in the car with you just in case.
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