Winter is Still With Us

That chubby little ground hog that’s holed up somewhere in Pennsylvania has seen his shadow so that means at least six more weeks of winter.  Yeah, it’s not something you want to think about, but it would be even more unpleasant to find yourself stranded on the side of the road because you car isn’t in good winter condition.
Sometimes those old sayings – you know, like “Better safe than sorry” – really do make a good point.  Don’t be sorry, follow these guidelines:
* Get a winter check up:  You can do it yourself or visit your BMW dealer service department, but one way or another make sure your hoses and belts are in good shape, the battery is running at full power and your brakes pads are not worn down.
* Safeguard against a frozen engine:  Your antifreeze level should be mixed with appropriate levels of water or your system can expand/freeze and crack engine components.
* Examine your tires:  Worn out tires are bad for any road condition but if you find yourself on wet or snow packed roads you won’t have the proper traction you need to be safe.
* Upgrade your washer fluid:  Standard cleaning fluids can freeze on your windshield in frigid temperatures.  Buy a specially formulated de-icing brand to maintain good visibility.
* Replace old wipers:  Streaking on the windshield can be dangerous when driving in hazardous conditions and visibility is crucial.
* Protect against gas line freeze:   If your owner’s manual recommends it, you should use a winterizing product in your gas to keep moisture from freezing the fuel line; at the very least always drive with at least a half tank of gas.
* Carry a emergency kit:  If you find yourself stuck on the side of the road, you will really appreciate having these items on board – cell phone recharger, blanket, protein bars, shovel, extra snow scraper, sand or kitty litter, spray de-icer, extra gloves and boots.