Get Your Car Ready for a Rochester Winter!

Compiled especially for Rochester-area moms by the folks at Ralph Honda

Your car dreads the winter season just as much as any Rochesterian does. This year, make sure you prepare it for the season to limit winter car surprises.

1. Get the Right Oil.

Check your owner’s manual or ask your mechanic for guidance about which oil to use in the Rochester climate and temperature – oils have different viscosity (thickness) at this time of year. Oil thickens as it gets colder; if it gets too thick, it won’t be doing the best job it can for you.

2. Check the Wipers.

Your windshield wipers are meant to last you about a year, so make sure yours are up-to-date. Also, fill your windshield washer reservoir with windshield washer fluid – plain water will freeze! Check that your heater and defroster are working properly before you need them.

3. Check Your Battery Power.

Pre-winter is the best time to make sure your battery’s posts and connections are corrosion-free and that it has its water supply. If your battery is older than three years, have a certified shop test its ability to hold charge to prevent yourself from having to find someone in the freezing cold to help you jump your kid-filled car.

4. Examine Belts and Hoses.

Cold weather can do some damage on belts and hoses so make sure they get checked for wear and tear before they snap and leave you stranded in the cold.

5. As always – Tire Pressure!

Make sure your tires are properly inflated to make sure you have the best traction possible even in the worst environments. As it gets colder the air pressure drops – generally 1 pound per square inch for every 10 degrees Fahrenheit that drops.

6. Get Snow Tires.

In Rochester, snow tires are a good idea over all-season tires. When shopping for snow tires, ask for the “out the door charge” that include all the fees that may come into play (mounting fees, balancing fees, etc).

7. Four-Wheel Drive.

If you have four-wheel drive, make sure it’s working correctly since you probably haven’t used it all spring and summer. Be sure the system engages and disengages and that all the drivers in the household know how to activate the system.

8. 50-50 Antifreeze Mixture.

Try to get a 50-50 mix of antifreeze (coolant) and water inside your radiator to prevent freezing. You can get an inexpensive antifreeze tester at most auto part stores. If your mixture is off, it should be drained and refilled or flushed...but if you're doing it yourself, make sure you can dispose of your antifreeze – you can’t just pour it down the drain. Remember to be an H2O Hero!

9. Prep an Emergency Kit.

Even if you’re not planning a road trip, it’s a good idea to have a winter emergency kit in the trunk or backseat. At most auto supply stores you can find prepared kits, or you can make your own. Be sure to remember: a blanket, extra boots and gloves, extra warm clothes, extra water and food, ice scraper, a small shovel, a flashlight, flares, jumper cables, a tool kit, a spare tire, tire-changing equipment, a first aid kit, paper towels, some abrasive material (sand, salt, kitty litter) that can provide traction if you get stuck. Also, remember to keep your tank at least half full to prevent gas lines from freezing.

10. If You Do Get Stuck:

Don’t wander away from your car unless you know where you are and how far away help is. Light a flare at each end of your car to bring attention to yourself. Put on extra clothes or cuddle with the blanket. If you have enough gas in the tank, run the engine and heater for 10 minutes for every hour you wait – remember to keep one window open a crack so that snow and ice doesn’t seal your car shut. Suck on hard candies to prevent your mouth from getting too dry.

This article has been brought to you by Ralph Honda in Greece, NY. Nearly 80 years ago, Andy Ralph began selling cars on West Main Street in Rochester. Four years later, he became a Pontiac dealer, and the rest is history. Now in its third generation, the company includes Mike Ralph, Sr., his son Steven, his brother Tom, and his nephew Zac, making the company a true Rochester family affair.

The Ralphs believe giving back to the community is an important part of doing business. They have been long time supporters of high school sports, sponsoring Section V basketball and hockey, various youth leagues and Senior night at the Greece high schools.

Now they want to help Rochester families with monthly safety tips and hints that will make every trip enjoyable. Look for more car safety articles from them soon! For more information about Ralph Honda or to check out their special deals on maintenance or inventory, visit RalphDoneRight.com.