Cold Weather Car Care
Winter driving brings a unique set of challenges, from slippery roads and reduced visibility to increased mechanical strain on vehicles. Tire Discounters, a trusted family-owned business since 1976, has been helping drivers navigate these conditions for decades. With over 190 locations across the U.S., their ASE-certified technicians are dedicated to keeping drivers safe and vehicles running smoothly during the cold months.
Ice, snow, and slush create hazardous conditions, making it harder for tires to grip the road. Black ice is especially dangerous because it’s nearly invisible, and reduced traction means longer stopping distances and an increased risk of skidding. Cold weather affects vehicles in multiple ways. Tires lose pressure, reducing grip and handling. Batteries lose power, making it harder to start the car. Fluids thicken, decreasing engine and brake efficiency, while locks and wipers can freeze, leaving drivers unprepared for sudden snow or ice. Winter also brings shorter days and poor visibility due to heavy snowfall, fog, and dirty windshields. Snow can obscure lane markings and hide hazards like potholes or debris, making driving even more challenging. Many drivers are unfamiliar with techniques like steering into a skid or braking gently on ice, which increases risks for everyone on the road.
Tire Discounters offers expert tips to help drivers prepare for these challenges. Keeping at least a quarter tank of gas prevents freezing and allows you to run the heater if you get stuck. Checking tire pressure and tread is essential, as tire pressure drops with the temperature. Proper tire pressure improves traction, braking, and cornering. Warming up the car before driving, with the garage door open, ensures safe engine performance. Coolant levels should be checked to prevent freezing and engine damage. Battery power diminishes in the cold, so a free battery check at Tire Discounters can help avoid unexpected breakdowns. Wiper blades wear out quickly in icy conditions and should be replaced regularly, with winter wiper blades being a better option. Wiper fluid and antifreeze levels should be topped off, with extra fluid kept on hand. Regular car washes help maintain safety systems like sensors and cameras, ensuring assistive-driving features function properly. Clean air filters improve engine performance and gas mileage, and dirty cabin filters should also be replaced for better HVAC performance. Packing an emergency kit with warm clothes, food, jumper cables, a blanket, a shovel, and a phone charger ensures readiness for unexpected situations.
Tire Discounters is more than a tire retailer. They provide comprehensive automotive services, from alignment and battery checks to brake services and oil changes. Their innovative benefits, such as free alignment with the purchase of four tires, ensure vehicles are prepared for winter’s challenges. As a family-owned business, Tire Discounters prioritizes customer satisfaction and safety. Their knowledgeable staff across Ohio, Kentucky, Indiana, Tennessee, Georgia, Alabama, and Virginia is ready to help drivers face the winter roads.
Winter driving requires preparation, caution, and the right support. With Tire Discounters’ tips and services, drivers can confidently navigate icy roads and snowy commutes. Visit your nearest location to get winter-ready and ensure a safe journey during the colder months.