Tips for moving your car from a warm climate to a cold one
First and foremost, if you are moving from a warmer climate to a colder one, it is time to take a hard look at your vehicles and begin preparing it and yourself for colder weather driving. It is very important to have a reliable mode of transportation during the winter months, so before your big move, be sure to have your car fully serviced and prepared for its long journey to its new home.
Make sure your car is in tip-top shape
Have your car or truck checked by a trusted mechanic and get a full tune-up before you ship. If repairs are needed, have them done now so your vehicle is road-ready after your move. One important consideration is moving from a warm climate to a cold one—your tires, brakes and even windshield wipers may need to be “winterized” to work effectively.
While having your car serviced, request to have winter tires or all season tires placed on your car, this will make driving a little better and offer less opportunities for slide out and skids. All season and winter tires are designed to provide good traction on slippery, wet or icy roads. Also while your car is being serviced, ask for your radiator to be filled with antifreeze and ask for it to be tested to meet the temperature lows in the area you are moving to. It is also helpful to have your windshield wiper fluid replaced with one that has de-icing fluid and to check your wipers to ensure they are in good condition. Last but not the least important is the oil viscosity, if the owner’s manual suggests temp differences be sure to use the appropriate type.
There are some general maintenance things you can do to keep your car running smoothly and looking its best. An important preventative measure you’ll want to make a part of your winter car-care schedule: regular washing and waxing, to prevent rust damage from salt on the roads.
An insider-tip for saving some time in the early, icy mornings: keep a spray bottle of half vinegar (white is cheapest, but any will do) and half water in your car. When you park in the evening, take a few moments to spray the windshield (and the back window, too, if you want to be really thorough). This will prevent ice from accumulating over night, and bonus? Your still-toasty hands will thank you in the morning.
