(Omaha) With cold temperatures and the potential for snow, ice, and sleet, AAA – The Auto Club Group urges drivers to prepare their vehicles and use caution. According to the U.S. Department of Transportation, winter road conditions are responsible for 1,300 deaths and 116,000 injuries each year.
Brian Ortner, spokesman for AAA-The Auto Club Group. He says cold temperatures, ice, and snow-packed roads make braking and steering dangerous. Speeding, tailgating, and poorly maintained vehicles increase the risk, making winter vehicle prep essential.
Ortner says vehicle maintenance during these frigid temperatures will be a great friend for many reasons. Starting with your vehicle’s tire.
Ortner says the same goes for your vehicle’s battery. He says check it weekly, as cold weather reduces the battery power.
Electric vehicle batteries are a little different animal. Precondition the battery while it is plugged in. Keep EVs plugged in when possible, expect 20-40 percent range loss in cold weather, and use heated seats and a heated steering wheel instead of high cabin heat.
Ortner says to use winter-grade washer fluid, check the antifreeze, and oil. Replace wiper blades, and make sure the heater works. AND, check the brakes and lights.
