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.

Tips to Improve Visibility this winter

by | Feb 10, 2014 | Car Care Tips, General Car Maintenance, Safe Driving Tips, Winter Driving Tips

Everyone knows that visibility is important while driving. But did you know how to make sure you have the best visibility possible? It begins once you start your vehicle. Make sure you allow it ample time to warm up. It is important to let the vehicle warm up for a few minutes before driving it. Parts that are cold and not lubricated properly can lead to major repair costs. While the vehicle is warming up, take the time to scrape snow, ice, and frost off all the windows. This can allow you the widest range of visibility from all the windows of your vehicle when you are driving. It is also recommended to go to regular maintenance appointments so that your vehicle is inspected properly. This can also help to ensure a safe and secure ride.

Lights working Properly

One of the things most people forget about until it is needed are the lights on the vehicle. Not only does the headlights help you to see, but it also helps others to see you. The same is true with the taillights and blinkers. Ensuring that they are working properly can help reduce the chance of someone rear ending and hitting you because they cannot see you. This could also happen if the blinkers are out and the other drivers do not know which way you are turning. It is recommended to make sure to test the headlights, taillights, and blinkers by getting out of the vehicle and walking around it. It is also advised to check the four way flashers as well. If you notice that a fuse is out for the blinkers, make sure to bring the vehicle in as soon as possible. The same is true if you notice a bulb needs to be replaced. You can also bring the vehicle in and we can check the lights and blinkers for you. This is a quick and easy repair that can help prevent a large list of problems.

Clearing off the Vehicle

Another important thing to do before driving is to make sure the vehicle is cleared off completely. This way you can help to prevent snow and ice flying off the hood of the vehicle and into the windshield. This could cause a chip, crack, or even break in the windshield. Clearing off the top of the vehicle and trunk can help to prevent chunks of snow and ice flying off. This is serious because it could damage and do harm to other vehicles that are on the road and around you. Also, by removing all the ice and snow, you can maximize the visibility you have when driving.

Make sure the Heater is working

While it is important to inspect the exterior of the vehicle, it is also important to check the interior. Make sure that the heater and defroster are working properly. If the windshield begins to frost or fog over, the defroster is needed in order to give you proper visibility. The heater is also important because it helps to keep you warm while driving. If the heater produces no warm air, it could indicate a more serious problem. If you notice this, make sure to bring the vehicle in as soon as possible so we can inspect it for you.