Friday, January 28, 2011

Winter Weather Driving Tips

It's supposed to get icky out for the next several days so I asked Whitney Binski, Service Manager at Performance Lexus, if she could give me some good winter weather driving tips. I've been known to hit a parked car during perfectly clear weather, so I really need the help when Mother Nature isn't on my side! :)

So, here are Whitney's Winter-Wise Driving Tips
•    Become familiar with your vehicle’s winter weather operating characteristics. Front-wheel-drive vehicles generally handle better than rear-wheel vehicles on slippery roads because the weight of the engine is on the drive wheels, improving traction.
•    Remember to clean head, tail and brake lights before you start driving.
•    If you need to turn on your wipers, turn on your headlights. Effective January 1, 2010, Ohio law requires drivers to turn on vehicle headlights whenever windshield wipers are in operation due to any precipitation.
•    To prevent fuel line freeze-up, keep your gas tank at least half full. Fill your gas tank before your vehicle is parked for lengthy periods.
•    Leave ample stopping time between you and the driver in front of you. Braking distance can be up to nine times greater on snowy, icy surfaces than on dry roads.
•    If your vehicle is equipped with an Anti-lock Braking System (ABS), be sure to: STOMP - firmly depress the brake pedal. STAY on the brakes - do not pump the brakes. STEER where you want the vehicle to go.
•    Gently pump non-ABS brakes to stop the vehicle. Take any corrective action gradually. You need to maintain full control of the vehicle. Refer to the vehicle operations manual for proper methods to correct skids.
•    Lock your vehicle, even in bad weather. If locks freeze, heat the key. Do not pour hot water on the locks - they will refreeze.
•    Drive with extreme caution on bridges and overpasses during freezing temperatures. Because bridge temperatures can be 5-6 degrees colder than roadways, they can become slick and icy before roads.
•    Stay with your vehicle while warming it up. An unattended, running car invites theft.


I also just read this helpful article about the damage the salt can do on your vehicle frame, tires and windshield wipers. I definitely suggest you read that article too for more tips!

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