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Snow Is In the Forecast for Parts of the PNW, It’s Time to Prepare for Winter Driving

AAA offers tips to prepare you and your vehicle for driving on ice and snow

BELLEVUE, Wash. — As forecasts around much of Washington and North Idaho predict frost, flurries and even heavy snow in the next few days, AAA reminds drivers how to prepare for what could be a long season of winter driving.

Now is the perfect time for you or a trusted auto technician to run through the Winter Car Care Checklist  to help you prevent some of the most common breakdowns AAA handles during cold weather months.

Checklist

Battery & Charging System

  • To start in the winter, vehicle engines require a fully charged battery in good condition. Test your vehicle’s battery strength; make sure terminals and cable ends are corrosion-free with tight connections.
  • Many vehicles have been driven less during the pandemic. If your vehicle hasn’t been driven in a while, you may encounter battery issues. Be sure to check it well before you need to use your vehicle.

Inspect drive belts and engine hoses for cracks, leaks or loose clamps.

Tires: Type, Tread & Pressure

  • In areas with heavy winter weather, snow tires on all four wheels provide the best winter traction. All-season tires work well in light-to-moderate snow conditions provided they have adequate tread depth.
  • Replace any tire that has less than 3/32-inches of tread.
  • Regularly check the pressure on all four tires. Pressures drop with temperatures. The proper levels are in the owner’s manual or listed on a sticker typically found on the driver’s side door jam.
  • Check engine air filter. It may need replacing after summer’s smoky skies.
  • Top off all fluids: antifreeze, transmission, brake, power steering and windshield washer.
  • Replace windshield wiper blades.
  • Make sure headlights, brake lights and turn signals are working.  Replace any burnt out bulbs.
  • Test brakes to ensure all components are in good working order.
  • Carry an emergency road kit specifically equipped for winter weather.

AAA has all your winter driving resources in one place www.aaa.com/winter, including what items to pack in that emergency road kit, tips for driving on ice and snow, advice on what to do during a break down. 

About AAA Washington:

AAA Washington was established in 1904 by 10 prominent Seattleites determined to champion the betterment of motoring conditions and laws, the preservation of Washington state’s natural beauty and the promotion of Washington as an unrivaled tourist destination. Nearly 120 years later, the club continues to pursue these on behalf of its 1.2 million members. 

Members of AAA Washington receive exclusive benefits, including roadside assistance, discounts on hotels and rental cars, comprehensive insurance options, and personalized trip planning. AAA Washington was named a Best Place to Work by Puget Sound Business Journal and voted the best Travel/Tourism Company by 425 Business readers in 2023, and AAA was named one of the most trusted travel and automotive brands in the U.S. Additional information is available through the company’s Washington and northern Idaho stores and at www.AAA.com. 

About AAA Foundation for Traffic Safety:

Established in 1947 by AAA, the AAA Foundation for Traffic Safety is a nonprofit, publicly funded, 501(c)(3) charitable research and educational organization. The AAA Foundation’s mission is to prevent traffic deaths and injuries by conducting research into their causes and by educating the public about strategies to prevent crashes and reduce injuries when they do occur. This research is used to develop educational materials for drivers, pedestrians, bicyclists and other road users. Visit www.AAAFoundation.org.

Media Contact

Fearey o/b/o AAA Washington 
AAA@feareygroup.com 
206-838-9209 

Twitter: @AAA_Washington
Facebook: AAA Washington
Instagram: aaawashington

Interested in planning your next road trip with AAA Washington? Call your travel agent directly or your nearest AAA store to get pro tips, TripTik maps, and more. Find more Pacific Northwest scenic drives and road trips.

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