As cold weather sets in, Milex Complete Auto Care recommends stocking your car with an emergency kit to keep you safe if you encounter car trouble.

The return of La Niña for the third consecutive year is expected to bring mild temperatures in the southeastern part of the United States and stormier weather in the north. The National Oceanic and Atmospheric Association forecasts below-normal temperatures from the Pacific Northwest eastward to the western Great Lakes and the Alaska Panhandle, and wetter-than-average conditions for areas of the Ohio Valley, Great Lakes, northern Rockies, and Pacific Northwest.

Winter Weather Affects Cars

With a stormy winter on the horizon, drivers need to prepare for cold temperatures. Winter weather can do a number on your vehicle. When the temperature falls, the fluids in your car can thicken and hamper performance. Fluctuating temperatures can impact tire pressure and have a negative effect on your car battery.

To help prevent breakdowns, we recommend making sure your car is up to date on its maintenance. It’s also a good idea to build a little bit of extra time in your schedule to allow your car to warm up before hitting the road this winter. Letting the car heat up will give the fluids time to flow properly, defrost the windshield, and heat up the cabin to provide a more comfortable ride. If you live in areas prone to snow, installing snow tires and winter wipers is important. Keeping your gas tank half full will prevent condensation from forming and minimize the risk of the gas line freezing.

Stock Your Car Emergency Kit

In addition to making sure your car’s maintenance is current, it’s a good idea to take time to put together a car emergency kit. Whether you get a flat or slide off the road during icy conditions, having the tools you need to stay safe can make all the difference. Once you stock your emergency car kit, the National Safety Council recommends checking it every six months and replacing any items that are expired.

Many auto supply stores sell pre-stocked emergency kits with many of the items you may need in the event of an emergency. They range in price from $25 to $150. Buying a pre-stocked emergency kit can make it easier, but it’s likely you already have many of the supplies you need on hand.

Here is a list of the essential components Milex Complete Auto Care technicians recommend including in your car’s emergency kit.

• Tire changing tools. Make sure you have all the supplies you need to change a flat, including a tire pressure gauge, properly inflated spare tire, wheel wrench, and tripod jack.
• Jumper cables
• Multipurpose tool
• Flashlight
• First aid kit. The first aid kit should be stocked with all the basics, including gauze, tape, bandages, medication, antiseptic, and antibiotic ointment.
• Road flares
• Non-perishable food and bottled water

If you live in a snowy area, it’s a good idea to include a snow brush, shovel, windshield wiper fluid, and blankets.

Get Ready for Winter at Milex!
Milex has been helping customers keep their vehicles in good condition and stay safe on the road for 50 years. We are the source for general automotive repair and maintenance, specializing in all aspects of mechanical repair, and our service is guaranteed by seven categories of warranties. We aim to establish long-term relationships with our customers by outlining repair options and tailoring the repair to their needs. Milex is part of the Moran Family of Brands umbrella, which franchises brands in the aftermarket auto repair and window tinting industries.

Our mechanics have the knowledge and skill to ensure your car runs smoothly this winter. Find your localMilex and schedule a service appointment today.