The winter often brings with it some inclement weather and tricky road conditions. Because of this, it’s important that you’re properly prepared to hit the road this winter. ;

You may be eager to get out on the road this winter, but when you remember how much of a hassle the winter roads can be, you may be tempted to cancel your plans. Before you do that, simply prepare to take on the roads successfully with these tips. ;

During the winter, it’s not just the roads that affect your car. The condition of your car also matters. To stay safe on the road, be sure your car is well-prepared to handle the win

• Check on your tires: Your tires are massively important this season. Because they’re the only part of your car that makes contact with the ground, they need to be in great condition so that you don’t end up skidding or sliding around the roads. Since the roads are slick due to the weather, the tread matters more than ever. You also want to make sure your tires are properly inflated so that you get the best grip on the road. If you’re planning to drive through snowy roads, don’t forget your chains! ;

• Prepare your brakes: Just like your tires help you stay safe on the road, so will your brakes. The weather can lead to some tricky road situations, so it’s important that you can rely on your brakes to help you stop effectively and safely. Before you hit the road, check on your brake pads and get them replaced if they’re running low. You should also check on your brake fluid and fill it up or get it changed if it’s not looking great. ;

• Top off your antifreeze: When checking under your hood, don’t forget about your car’s antifreeze. You don’t want to get stranded on the side of the road because you’re running low on this fluid, so definitely top it off. You may be tempted to add water to it as a temporary solution to low antifreeze levels, but don’t do it during the winter. Since temperatures can drop significantly, this can lead that water to freeze, leading to more issues. ;

• Get a synthetic oil change: Another important step to take is to give your car a synthetic oil change before temperatures drop drastically. Since conventional oil will get thick and have a harder time keeping your engine protected as it warms up, it won’t be ideal in the winter. Synthetic oil, on the other hand, will flow just as well as ever no matter how cold it gets. Keep your engine protected with this simple change. ;

Contact AMSOIL Dealer Dwight Smith for help finding the best oil for your next oil change. They’ll be happy to recommend products like AMSOIL’s Signature Series 0W-40 Synthetic Motor Oil. Give them a call at (702) 561-3706 or stop by their online shop to browse their products and place your order. ;

• Give yourself extra time: There’s no doubt that the roads can turn into quite a mess during the winter, so it’s smart to give yourself extra time to get to your destination. This means you won’t have to rush and put yourself in extra danger as you make your way on the road. ;

• Know what to expect: Before heading out the door, check the weather forecast so you know what to expect on the roads. This will help you plan your route and make it easier to decide how long you’ll need to make it to your destination. ;

• Winter road changes: Whether you’re expecting snow, ice, rain, or wind, you know the roads won’t be quite as easy as they are during the summer. Carry the necessary items in your car to make the roads easier to handle. Snow chains, an ice scraper, a small shovel, and road salts can come in handy, so don’t forget them at home! ;

• Take it easy: If you’re driving a long distance, it’s best to get plenty of rest before your drive. Don’t push yourself too hard and make time for breaks so that you aren’t driving while tired. It may not seem so bad, but driving while tired can be very dangerous, especially in the inclement weather. ;

Give your car a synthetic oil change in Ann Arbor to prepare it for the winter. Contact the oil pros at AMSOIL Dealer, Dwight Smith to find a great oil for your car. Give their friendly oil pros a call at (702) 561-3706 to learn more or to place your order.