Freezing temperatures are headed to the Houston area this weekend, and icy roads combined with cold weather could make driving dangerous.
Before the freeze hits, experts say a little preparation can go a long way in keeping you safe on the road — and avoiding costly breakdowns.
Mechanic Junior Bekdely of Redline Autosports says many important steps can be done right at home.
“All kinds of things can happen to your car,” Bekdely said. “There’s a bunch of stuff you want to check before the freeze comes.”
What You Can Do at Home
Start with these simple checks in your driveway:
Top off and check fluids
Antifreeze coolant
Windshield washer fluid
Engine oil
Brake fluid
Power steering fluid
Transmission fluid
Bekdely says antifreeze and washer fluid are especially important in freezing conditions.
Inspect your tires
Look for worn or smooth tread
Check for exposed wires or damage
Inflate tires before temperatures drop, since cold air lowers tire pressure
“If you see the tread is gone and it’s just smooth, then get them replaced — or stay home,” Bekdely warned.
Check your battery
Look for corrosion or buildup around the terminals
If you notice excessive corrosion, your battery may be failing
Bekdely also recommends keeping jumper cables or a portable booster pack in your vehicle, just in case.
When to Visit a Mechanic
For extra peace of mind, a quick trip to your local mechanic’s shop can help catch issues you might miss at home. During a cold-weather checkup, mechanics can:
Test the battery’s strength and charge
Test coolant and other fluids
Correct tire pressure
Perform a general vehicle inspection
“We have tools that can test the integrity of the battery and the coolant,” Bekdely said. “We’ll get your tire pressure corrected and give it a general look over so you don’t get yourself in trouble.”
One More Cold-Weather Tip
When temperatures drop, don’t rush out the door and drive immediately. Let your car warm up for five to ten minutes so engine and transmission fluids reach operating temperature. Turn on the defroster before driving to ensure clear visibility.
Taking these steps now can help make sure your car — and your commute — is ready for freezing temperatures this weekend.
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