Is your vehicle ready for the winter? Even if you’ve only lived here for a little while, you know that Colorado winters bring icy roads, sudden snow squalls and subzero morning temperatures. So, whether you’re commuting to work, heading to the mountains or taking a ride down to Denver it’s important to be prepared for when winter weather strikes. At Houska Automotive we want to help you stay safe and prepared for whatever Mother Nature throws your way. Here are a few tips to get your vehicle ready.
Tire Care – First Line of Defense
Tires are the only thing between the road and your vehicle, and during the winter that matters more than ever. Switch to winter tires for the season. They do a better job maintaining traction in snow and ice. Plus, make it a habit to check tread depth and tire pressure.
See and Be Seen
Visibility is a key safety factor when winter precipitation is falling and daylight fades early. Replace wiper blades if they look worn. Immediately clean snow and grime off headlights and other lights around the outside of your vehicle. Finally, make sure both front and rear defrosters are working properly to keep your windshields clear of frost and condensation.
Keep a Winter Emergency Kit Ready
Even if you make it a habit to keep an emergency kit in your vehicle, you’ll need some different items for the winter. Those include an ice scraper, blanket, hand warmers and some sort of traction aid like sand or kitty litter to get through tough ice patches and snow.
Understand Colorado Chain Laws
Colorado’s Traction and Chain Laws are enforced on major routes like I-70 during strong weather conditions to keep you and the roads safe and traffic moving. To know what the regulations are, visit codot.gov/travel/winter-driving/tractionlaw.
Winter driving in Northern Colorado doesn’t have to be stressful. With proper tire care, good visibility, and a well-equipped emergency kit, you can handle even the snowiest roads with confidence.
At Houska Automotive, our certified technicians are here to help you prepare your car for the season—whether that means checking your battery, inspecting your tires, or performing a full winter safety inspection. Schedule your winter vehicle checkup with us today.