Driving in the Winter is sNOw Joke: The Ultimate Checklist to Caring for your Honda

Forget winter is coming… winter is *basically* here! Unfortunately, this means it’s time to get your vehicle ready for the tough months ahead. Luckily for you, Mungenast St. Louis Honda Service Center is here for all your service needs before AND after the winter months. So, buckle up so we can take you through the ultimate checklist for caring for your Honda vehicle during the winter!

• Switch out regular tires for winter tires. By investing in these tires, you’ll prolong the life of your regular tires as well. The winter tires will also give you extra traction on the pavement, especially when there are freezing temperatures outside!
• Keep tires inflated at the correct PSI. Cold temperatures often deflate tires more quickly than usual, so it’s important to stay on top of it and check the pressure of your tires if your vehicle doesn’t already notify you. Tires can lose up to a pound of pressure with every 10-degree temperature drop!
• Keep gas tank *at least* half-filled at all times. With cold temperatures and unpredictable weather, it’s always safe to keep gas in your tank at all times. In the event of an emergency or if you get stuck in the snow, you’ll still have gas if you need to wait for rescue.
• Check all fluid levels. Those darn cold temperatures sure will get you…and your car! Cold temperatures cause oil to become thick, and salt and debris constantly spray up at your windshield. Therefore, it’s important to check the levels of all the important fluids including engine oil, brake oil, windshield washer fluid, transmission oil and coolant.
• Replace ineffective windshield wipers and/or lights. Driving in the snow/rain can be a very nerve-wracking experience, especially if you can barely see out of your windshield! Make sure to replace any streaky wipers so your vision is top-notch in any weather. Also check that all headlights, brake lights, and turn signals are working properly!
• Don’t get salty about rust, just get a car wash! BEFORE your vehicle starts to rust, get in the habit of washing your car to clear it of salt, dirt and other debris that cause rust. After all, once your vehicle starts to rust, it’s hard to stop it!
• Items to carry around *in* your car. There’s a possibility you won’t have to use many of these items, but it’s better to be safe than sorry! Your list of items should include:
  • Ice scraper/snow brush. Bonus: a small shovel in case you need to dig your vehicle out of the snow!
  • Blanket
  • Jumper cables
  • Car charger or portable phone charger
  • Bottled water/non-perishable food
  • First aid kit with necessary medications
  • Cat litter
  • Extra warm clothes/boots
  • Flares

Since every vehicle is different, some vehicles may need a little extra TLC this winter. But no worries, the Mungenast St. Louis Honda Service Center has got all your service needs covered!