We are experiencing beautiful Fall weather, but you know that means winter snows aren’t far behind. Be ready for the weather change by preparing your vehicle now. Just a few minutes prepping now can save you hours of inconvenience later.
Before the snow falls, make sure to check your tires. Having enough tire tread is very important for your vehicle’s ability to grip the road. The tried-and-true penny test is a great way to check your tire tread. Just insert a penny, Lincoln’s head pointed down and facing you, into the tread. If you can see all of his head, it is time to see us for some new tires. Keeping your tires to proper inflation is also important. If the air pressure in your tires is low, they can not grip the road as well. This could lead to a potentially dangerous winter driving situation which is easily avoided with proper inflation.
Other vehicle areas to inspect include your battery and your antifreeze. It is best to have your antifreeze changed before the winter so it is ready to handle extreme cold temperatures. Make sure to test your vehicle’s heater too so you are sure it heats up. Better to find out in advance if there is a need for a repair, rather than find out on the first cold morning of winter!
Even with the best of preparations and vehicle is super condition, there is always a chance that you could find yourself stuck by the roadside. Have a well-stocked Winter Emergency Kit in your vehicle at all times. This kit should include year-round basics like jumper cables, a first aid kit, water and shelf-stable snacks, small tool kit, and reflective markers for the road. For winter, you should make sure to add in a blanket, small shovel, and gloves.
The experts at the Thelen Kia Service Center are always eager to help you with your vehicle inspection. We want you to feel safe in your Great Lakes Bay Region travels! Schedule your appointment today and let us help you with this essential aspect of Michigan winter driving.



Warranties include 10-year/100,000-mile powertrain and 5-year/60,000-mile basic. All warranties and roadside assistance are limited. See retailer for warranty details.