It’s that time of year again! The winter season has arrived. Here at Joe Cooper Ford of Yukon, we want to make sure you are informed with the best tips we have for keeping your vehicle in great shape during these next few months. Since 1946, it has been our mission to inform our customers about optimal care and maintenance for their cars. Safety is very important to our family. So let us help you get on the road with confidence this season, knowing your vehicle is ready to take on any weather conditions ahead. We have compiled four of our best car care tips below to get your vehicle ready for the snow, ice, sleet and freezing rain. Let's check them out!

Top 4 Winter Tips

1. Check your tires

Do you regularly check your tire pressure? If not, this is a great time to start. With the falling temperatures, your vehicle's tires lose, on average, one pound of pressure every 10-degree (Fahrenheit) temperature change. Because of this change, it is a good idea to have a second set of tires for the winter season specifically. That is because winter tires are more likely to withstand the harsh conditions of the colder months compared to summer tires, which have worn down from the scorching heat of the road. Changing out your tires is a great first step in preparing for the season ahead.

2. Keep a full tank of gas

You may think filling up your gas tank is an unusual step to ensure your vehicle's performance this winter, but it is just as important as filling up in any other season. With freezing temperatures arriving, your gas tank can accumulate water and freeze over. Keeping your gas tank full can help to avoid this. It is also a good idea to fill your tank in the event you get stranded and have to wait for help to arrive. A full tank of gas will allow you to sit with your car running longer, keeping you safe and warm inside while you wait.

3. Keep Cool with Coolant/Antifreeze

Taking care of our engines is something we do all year round. But during the cooler months, harsh weather can keep us indoors longer, leading to us avoiding any maintenance on our vehicles that may be needed. However, checking your engine's fluids (the coolant/antifreeze levels) will ensure your radiator is protected throughout the season without freezing over and causing severe damage to your motor. There are different types of coolant so it is also important to know what type is right for your vehicle. We can help with that.

4. Know where your survival kit is

Lastly, you should buy or create a first aid/survival kit for your vehicle specifically and know where it is inside your vehicle at all times. Most newer vehicles come with a first aid kit already onboard. But it is important to check it and make sure it includes items specific to your family or situation for the changing seasons. A few key items you should have in your vehicle along with your first-aid kit include phone and battery chargers, flashlights, extra blankets, jumper cables and a flip phone. Yes, we said you need a flip phone. That is because it is easy for even a small child to use when calling 911 in the event of an emergency. It can also hold a longer charge than a smartphone and does not require a password to open — again, making it easy for anyone who is nearby to pick it up and call for help.