Temperatures are expected to plummet Sunday evening, making your car more vulnerable to breaking down on the road.
With many people working from home and hunkering down for extended quarantines, fewer cars have been hitting the road since the start of the pandemic.
According to AAA, leaving your car sitting idle for days or weeks in the cold could bring even more problems. The company said routine maintenance has been overlooked by drivers during the pandemic. It’s crucial you check your batteries, tires and fluids before you head out in the cold, especially if you haven’t driven in awhile.
Jenifer Moore, AAA senior public affairs specialist, emphasized the importance of having a cold-weather safety kit in your car. That includes blankets, snacks, flares, sanitizer, water and anything else you would need if you find yourself on the side of the road. If snow and ice become an issue in your area, Moore suggests packing this household item in your trunk.
“Kitty litter,” Moore said. “If you do not have salt on hand you can use kitty litter and it acts as a traction under snow and ice to get you out of a ditch. We really suggest getting a full preventative maintenance check up to see what needs to be fixed before the cold temps go bad.”
Moore said AAA does offer free battery and tire testing for members.
