8001 Minnetonka Blvd.

952.931.9696

Mon-Thu: 7am -6pm
Friday: 7am – 5pm

6407 West Lake Street

952.922.9696

Mon-Thu: 7am -6pm
Friday: 7am – 5pm

Thank you for choosing D&D Autoworks for your vehicles’ service, maintenance and repair.

Winter driving safety tips

by | Dec 2, 2013 | Car Care Tips, General Car Maintenance, Safe Driving, Winter Driving Tips

Driving safe when the roads become slippery is important to you and those around you. There are a few steps that you can take to help ensure that the vehicle is ready for any poor road conditions that might arise. The most important thing is to have the vehicle in for regular maintenances. This can help to ensure that it is running effectively and efficiently for when you might need it. By bringing your vehicle in for scheduled maintenances, we can inspect those parts and components for any damage or wear they may have. The parts can then get replaced in a timely manor to help provide you with a safe and reliable ride.

Remove all ice and snow from the vehicle

Before setting out to drive, make sure to give the vehicle ample time to warm up. This can help to get the engine and other components warmed up before they are forced to operate under typical driving conditions. Driving after immediately starting the vehicle in the cold can cause parts to wear down. Also make sure to clear off all the snow and ice from the vehicle. The entire vehicle should be cleaned off. Places like the hood, roof, trunk, windows, lights, and even the license plates should be cleared away of any build-up of snow or ice. This way you do not have to worry about any snow or ice blowing onto the windows of your vehicle and obstructing the view as you drive. It is also a safety precaution for others on the road. Snow and ice may sometimes blow off your vehicle, and obstruct the vision of those behind you. It is important to clear away anything from the lights and signals so that others can see you and be aware of where you are. Also check to ensure that the windshield wiper blades are in good working order. They should be free of any rips or tears. This way they can clean the window efficiently.

Keep the fuel tank at least half full

To help be prepared for winter, make sure the fuel tank is always at least half full. This is a good rule to follow any time of the year, but it is especially important in the colder months. Having the fullest tank possible, you can help to ensure your vehicle will be ready to drive if needed. If you find yourself in an emergency situation, it always best the have the fuel tank be at least half full. If you become stuck or stranded on the roadway, having fuel in the tank can help to ensure you stay warm until help arrives.

Have regular maintenance done

It is important to follow the manufacturer’s suggested maintenance schedule. If you are unsure of how often the vehicle should be brought in for scheduled maintenances, we can help to set up a schedule for you. This way parts can be inspected as recommended. If between visits you notice an issue with the vehicle, make sure to bring it in as soon as possible and bring it to our attention. That way you can help provide a safe and enjoyable ride with your vehicle once again.