The winter months can be tough on automobiles, even reliable models such as the Pacifica. If you’re not careful, you may find yourself stranded on the side of a snowy road waiting for a tow truck. Fortunately, getting your vehicle ready for winter is actually very quick and easy if you know what to do. Here are a few tasks that will help you get your Pacifica ready for the winter months so that you always have the dependable transportation that you need.
Invest in a Set of Winter Tires
Losing traction and having your vehicles spin out is the biggest threat when driving during the winter. If there is frequent snow or other types of wintry precipitation in your area, purchasing and installing a set of winter tires is the best way to get your Pacifica ready for the winter months.
Winter tires are specifically designed to maintain your traction on slick roads during the colder winter months, and will help you drive with confidence in slippery or snowy conditions.
Check Your Battery
Extremely low temperatures can impact your car’s battery, and if you have an older battery in your car, low temps may prevent your vehicle from starting. Before the winter months arrive, you should test the voltage of your battery to make sure everything is in working order. When you crank your Pacifica, your voltage should be above 10, and while your minivan is running, the voltage should be above 12.
Inspect Fluid Levels
Checking your antifreeze levels is another important way to get your Pacifica ready for winter. Antifreeze, as its name suggests, prevents freezing in your engine, and if your levels are too low, your engine could actually freeze when the outside temperatures plummet. If you find that you antifreeze is running low, you should top it off to make sure that your engine runs smoothly all winter long.
Change Your Oil
Scheduling an oil change and requesting that your technician use a winter-grade oil is another effective way to prepare your automobile for the winter season. When the weather cools down, it’s better to use an engine oil with a lower viscosity. Low viscosity oils perform much better in lower temperatures, so using this type of oil during the winter will help ensure that your Pacifica runs the way that it should.
Build an Emergency Kit
Even with the proper preparation, it’s still possible that you’ll experience a breakdown while driving this winter. Because being stranded in cold weather can be very dangerous, you should be sure that you build a winter emergency kit for your Pacifica before the season arrives.
Your winter emergency kit should include several items that can keep you safe if your minivan breaks down. Pack enough blankets to keep your family warm until a tow truck arrives. You also need to store a supply of water and non-perishable snacks. A portable cell phone charger will make sure you can call for help and stay in touch until you’re back on the road. Including a bag of sand may help you restore traction on ice or snow.
Follow these simple tips, and you can easily get your Pacifica ready for winter.
Image via Chrysler.com
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