‘Tis the season: 15 winter driving tips

Are your winter tires in good condition and properly installed? Perfect. But even the best tires won’t help you when it comes to certain hazards that commonly occur on winter roads. At Auto Value, we know all the tricks when it comes to smart winter driving. To get ready for the many car trips the holidays inevitably bring, keep reading.

Here’s what you need to do BEFORE you get behind the wheel this winter:

1- Make an appointment for a tune-up

2- Check the weather forecast

3- Wear warm, comfortable clothing

4- Clear snow from your car’s windows, mirrors, roof and hood

5- Fill up your windshield washer fluid

6- Keep an emergency kit in your trunk

7- Make sure your gas tank is full

Remember these pro tips WHILE you’re on the road this winter:

8- Keep a safe distance from other vehicles

9- Drive at significantly reduced speeds

10- Turn on your headlights when visibility is low

11- Avoid braking abruptly to prevent skidding

12- Keep your gaze far ahead to see hazards coming

13- Beware of black ice

14- Avoid passing other vehicles when the weather is bad

15- Don’t use your cruise control during a storm or when the road is slippery

Stay alert or don’t drive

It’s always crucial to stay alert while driving, but this is perhaps even more the case during the winter. Inattentiveness is one of the main causes of traffic accidents, so keep potential distractions at bay. If you don’t think you can resist checking your texts or emails on the road, store your cellphone out of reach.

If your ability to drive is in any way impaired, be it by prescription medication, alcohol, recreational drugs or extreme fatigue, don’t get behind the wheel: call a taxi or your local designated driver service.

Auto Value: your destination for meticulous maintenance

If you don’t want car-related worries to put a damper on your holiday cheer, visit one of Auto Value’s Certified Service Centers for a tune-up. Our experienced mechanics will meticulously take care of all your car’s preventative maintenance needs, checking your tires, brakes, exhaust system, suspension and more so that you can get back on the road with peace of mind.

Service is the difference. We get it.