Winter Driving Tips

Navigating winter road conditions in PA can be difficult, even for the most experienced drivers. Snow, ice, and frigid temperatures can all pose challenges when you must commute to work or drive to the grocery store, but being prepared can help mitigate problems and, more importantly, keep you safe on the Wexford roads. That said, Ron Lewis Alfa Romeo provides some helpful winter driving tips below to help get your vehicle ready and ensure your winter driving safety.

Winter Vehicle Maintenance Checklist

A big part of winter driving safety in Pittsburgh involves prepping your vehicle for harsh conditions. Here is a checklist of seasonal maintenance to do before the winter weather settles in:

• Check the battery (replace if necessary) 
• Upgrade to winter tires 
• Check/adjust tire pressure 
• Inspect the brake system 
• Check/adjust coolant levels 
• Change the oil (if necessary) 
• Check the heating system 
• Use a cold-weather-ready windshield wiper fluid 
• Replace the windshield wipers
• Check exterior lights (replace bulbs if necessary)

Winter Driving Safety Tips

Keep the Gas Tank Filled

While stopping for gas more often adds an extra task to your routine, it is worth it to always have a full or nearly full gas tank during the winter. The last thing any driver wants is to run out of gas and become stranded in freezing temperatures. If your vehicle is electric, keep the battery adequately charged, and remember that it may take longer to charge in cold temperatures. 

Plan Your Routes

Are you driving somewhere new in Sewickley? Familiarize yourself with the directions before leaving, even if you will use a navigation system during your trip. You should also check the weather forecast before hitting the road.

Make a Winter Car Kit

Every driver should have an emergency kit in their vehicle so that if something happens on the road, they can help themself while waiting for assistance to arrive. A winter car kit should include items such as:

• Tools like a snow shovel and an ice scraper with a brush 
• Sand or kitty litter in case you get stuck 
• Jumper cables, a flashlight, flares, and emergency markers
• Warm blankets 
• Cell phone and charger
• Water, food, and any necessary medicine 

Schedule Seasonal Maintenance at Ron Lewis Alfa Romeo

We hope these winter driving tips will help you in the months ahead. If your vehicle needs maintenance for winter, schedule an appointment at our service center in Cranberry Twp. Whether you need an oil change or winter tires from our parts center, we are here to help.