As temperatures begin to dip across Kentucky, mechanics in Lexington are urging drivers to take a few simple steps now to ready their vehicles for winter. Early preparation can prevent costly breakdowns and keep families safe on icy roads.
Check tire pressure and fluids
Chris O’Callaghan, owner of Stuggart Motors on North Broadway, says the first item on a winter checklist should be tire pressure. Cold air contracts, causing pressure to drop and potentially affecting handling and fuel efficiency. “When that cold weather snaps and it comes down very fast, the tire pressure can fall enough to change how the car drives,” O’Callaghan explained.
He also recommends inspecting coolant levels and making sure the battery is in good condition. Batteries are especially vulnerable to sudden temperature drops, and a weak battery can leave a driver stranded before the engine even turns over.
Battery performance in the cold
“You never noticed, but when it gets down to the cold portions of it and it has to try harder because your engine’s harder to pump over, then it’s really going to try to start as hard as it can,” O’Callaghan said. He advises owners to have the battery tested before the first freeze and replace it if it shows signs of weakness.
Windshield wipers and defroster
Winter visibility depends on functional windshield wiper blades. Worn blades can smear snow and rain, reducing sight lines. Drivers should replace any blades that are cracked or stiff.
Another key component is the vehicle’s defroster. Ensuring the system produces warm air helps clear frost and ice quickly, keeping the windshield clear and reducing the need for risky manual scraping.
Emergency kit essentials
O’Callaghan stresses the importance of an emergency kit. A basic kit should include an ice scraper, a blanket, a flashlight, extra gloves, and a small amount of non‑perishable food. “Always have a kit in your car… are there different things that if the vehicle does break down … would you be OK for a small spell until help actually does come?” he asked.
Safety precautions
Drivers should never start a vehicle inside a closed garage. Carbon monoxide from exhaust fumes is colorless and odorless, and can cause serious illness or death if it builds up.
While some drivers let their cars idle for extended periods to warm them up, newer models generally do not require long warm‑up times. A brief start‑up is sufficient to circulate oil before heading out.
Take action now
O’Callaghan recommends completing routine maintenance and assembling an emergency kit before the first major cold snap, rather than waiting for a problem to arise. By taking these steps early, Lexington motorists can protect their families, avoid unexpected repairs, and travel with confidence throughout the winter months.
Original reporting: LEX18 Lexington (local) — read the source article.
