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While Oregon winters are usually mild, we aren’t strangers to snow, ice, hail, and other cold-weather hazards. Winter driving requires special attention to your vehicle, and winter weather can place any vehicle – or any driver – in an unsafe condition. Here are five tips to see you safely through the winter driving season:

Consider Purchasing Snow Tires While “all-weather” tires can suffice, purchasing high-quality winter tires might be the best thing you can do for your vehicle if you plan on being in the snow often (and you do, don’t you?). New tread patterns that are efficient on both dry pavement and snow have replaced loud, deep-treaded snow tires of the past and are definitely worth considering.

Always keep plenty of gas in the tank. You never know when you will be stuck somewhere in traffic, or stuck on the mountain in the snow. Your gas mileage may drop during winter, because there is more stop-and-go driving, because the roads are slicker, and because your vehicle may operate at a lower temperature. Unless your engine is running rough or the check engine light is on, a small decline in miles per gallon is normal. To keep your miles per gallon at their best, and to drive safely, watch your tire pressure. Most manufacturers do not recommend that you change the inflation during the winter. When in doubt, consult your owners’ manual.

Check Your Tire Pressure Monthly This is crucial throughout the winter months. Cold weather can mean significant drops in your tire pressure and a threat to not only your fuel economy, but also your safety. Establish one day each month to ensure you are keeping up with the recommended tire pressure for your vehicle – doing so can prevent major problems down the road.

Learn how to use your 4-wheel drive or anti-lock brakes ahead of time. Consider practicing in an empty parking lot. This is particularly important when you buy an unfamiliar vehicle. Anti-lock brakes cause a unique shudder and noise from the brake pedal. This is normal. They usually don’t even activate unless you stomp down on the brake pedal hard and fast. Try it. That way it won’t be so scary when you experience this in a panic situation. 4-wheel drive now has several configurations depending on the make and model of the vehicle. If yours is one that you have to activate, learn how yours works before you need it. For most vehicles, it should not be used on dry pavement, which can bind up the drive train.

Don’t pour hot water on a frozen car. It can cause your windshield to crack. Plan a few extra minutes to allow the interior of your car to warm up and defrost the windshield, or place an old rubber mat over your windshield before you go to bed at night.

Looking for your own cold-weather ready new or pre-owned vehicle? Browse our new inventory, pre-owned inventory, and internet specials 24/7 at gladstonesuzuki.com.