Our expert technicians at Christian Brothers Automotive Lafayette, located in Lafayette, Colorado, are here to assist you in getting your car prepared so you can travel safely this holiday season.

Keep your tires in good condition

Tires don’t have enough tread to keep traction on wet or icy roads when they are worn down. In fact, driving on worn out tires is hazardous even during good road conditions. State troopers in Colorado will be strictly enforcing Code – 15 this year. If your tires don’t have at least 1/8 inch of tread you could receive a ticket. In addition, vehicles will have to either have snow tires or be equipped with some type of traction control system/device, such as 4-wheel or all-wheel drive, chains or tire snow socks.

When the temperature drops you also need to make sure the tire pressure is correct. As the air outside chills, the air in the tires condenses. To keep them properly inflated, you’ll have to add more air. If the warning light for tire pressure on your dashboard lights up, you’ll know it’s too low to drive with. Much like tread, having the right tire pressure is essential to keeping traction on dangerous winter roads.

Check your car battery

Throughout the winter season, your vehicle’s engine will work harder. This puts increased pressure on the battery. It’s one of the biggest reasons you see drivers jumping their cars in parking lots while running holiday errands. There aren’t too many things that are more inconvenient than getting stranded with a dead battery. It’s always best to get the battery checked, just in case.

Use the right amount of antifreeze

The coolant, or antifreeze, is stored in the radiator and is used to keep the engine from overheating or freezing. Don’t forget the antifreeze should be mixed with water at a 50:50 ratio. Having too little or too much puts the engine at risk. Always consult one of our local Lafayette automotive technicians when preparing for winter to make sure the antifreeze mixture is the correct ratio.

Stay safe this winter by getting your car ready for winter at Christian Brothers Automotive Lafayette. The ASE-certified technicians at our Lafayette auto repair center can help you with any issues your car might have. We also back most of our services with the 2-year/24,000-mile Nice Difference warranty. Call Christian Brothers Automotive Lafayette to prepare your car for winter and you’ll feel the nice difference!