How To Prepare Vehicles For Cold Weather

Another cold snap is set to arrive Wednesday night, with temperatures expected to drop into the teens and feel-like temperatures in the single digits. Before the cold weather hits, AAA Northeast recommends taking steps to ensure vehicles are ready.

“During last week’s brutal cold snap, we saw a significant spike in calls from members with battery problems,” said Lloyd Albert, senior vice president of Public and Government Affairs at AAA Northeast in a press release. “Even a good battery can lose up to 50 percent of its capacity when temperatures drop to zero. At 32 degrees it can take up to 30 percent more power to start a cold engine.”

RELATED: Winter Weather: Safe Driving Tips for Snowy Roads

AAA Northeast is encouraging drivers to have their batteries tested or replaced before the cold weather hits. While a jump start can get a car to start, it is not a long-term solution for battery issues.

In addition, drivers should check their washer fluid level, tire pressure, and get an oil change if needed.

The Centers For Disease Control recommends checking tire treads and replacing tires with all-weather or snow tires if needed. During the winter, drivers should keep their gas tank full to prevent ice buildup in lines and use a wintertime formula washer fluid that will not freeze.

The CDC also encourages keeping a stocked emergency kit in vehicles during winter months that contains:

• cell phone, portable charger, and extra batteries
• blankets
• food and water
• booster cables, flares, tire pump, and a bag of sand or cat litter (for traction)
• compass and maps
• flashlight, battery-powered radio, and extra batteries
• first-aid kit
• plastic bags (for sanitation)

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