5 Important Winter Car Safety Tips | Leber Insurance Group

Winter in Pennsylvania can be beautiful, but it can also be brutal on your vehicle. Snow, ice, road salt, freezing rain, and frigid temperatures all take a toll on your car’s performance and safety. Staying proactive with seasonal maintenance isn’t just about protecting your investment; it’s about protecting your family every time you get behind the wheel. 

At Leber Insurance Group, we know that preparation is key. As the leader in auto insurance in Newtown PA, Bensalem PA, Southampton PA, Yardley PA, Langhorne PA, Richboro PA, Holland PA, Bucks County, Montgomery County, and the Greater Philadelphia Area, we’ve seen firsthand how proper vehicle upkeep can prevent accidents and costly claims. 

Here are the five best winter upkeeps to keep you and your loved ones safe during these unforgiving winter months. 

1. Check and Maintain Your Tires

Your tires are your first line of defense against icy and snow-covered roads. Cold weather causes tire pressure to drop, about 1 PSI for every 10-degree decrease in temperature. Underinflated tires reduce traction, handling, and braking performance. 

Make it a habit to check tire pressure at least once a month, ensure tread depth is adequate (at least 2/32”, but 4/32” or more is recommended for winter driving), and consider switching to winter tires if you frequently drive in snow-prone areas of Bucks County or Montgomery County. 

Proper tire maintenance significantly reduces your risk of sliding or hydroplaning, especially on untreated back roads common throughout the Greater Philadelphia Area. 

2. Test Your Battery

Winter is one of the most common times for battery failure. Cold temperatures slow down chemical reactions inside the battery, reducing its power output just when your vehicle needs it most. 

Warning signs of a weak battery include slow engine crank, dim headlights, and dashboard warning lights. Have your battery tested before temperatures dip too low. Most auto shops in Newtown PA and surrounding areas offer free battery checks. Replacing a failing battery before it dies can save you from being stranded in freezing conditions. 

As a trusted provider of auto insurance in Newtown PA and the surrounding communities, Leber Insurance Group always encourages drivers to eliminate preventable breakdown risks during winter. 

3. Inspect Brakes and Fluid Levels

Stopping safely on icy roads depends heavily on your braking system. If you notice squeaking, grinding, or delayed braking response, have your brakes inspected immediately. 

Additionally, winter demands extra attention to fluids. Antifreeze or coolant ensures your engine doesn’t freeze. Use winter-grade windshield washer fluid that won’t freeze in low temperatures. Consider switching to winter-weight oil if recommended by your manufacturer. 

Salt and moisture can accelerate wear and corrosion. Keeping fluids clean and topped off ensures optimal performance during harsh weather conditions. 

Drivers across Newtown PA, Bensalem PA, Southampton PA, and Langhorne PA rely on dependable vehicles during winter commutes, and maintenance plays a major role in that reliability. 

4. Replace Wiper Blades and Check Lights

Visibility is critical during winter storms. Snowfall, sleet, and early sunsets make it harder to see, and be seen. 

Replace worn or streaking wiper blades (How to by Rain X), check all exterior lights including brake lights and turn signals, and clean headlights regularly to remove salt buildup. 

Clear visibility reduces the chance of rear-end collisions and intersection accidents. If you’re driving through Yardley PA or Holland PA during a snowstorm, clear sightlines could make all the difference. 

As a leading agency for auto insurance in Bucks County and the Greater Philadelphia Area, Leber Insurance Group understands that many winter accidents stem from poor visibility. A small maintenance step today can prevent a major claim tomorrow. 

5. Keep an Emergency Kit in Your Vehicle

Even with proper maintenance, winter weather can be unpredictable. Having an emergency kit provides peace of mind in case you become stranded. 

Your winter emergency kit should include blankets, a flashlight with extra batteries, an ice scraper and snow brush, jumper cables, non-perishable snacks and bottled water, a first-aid kit, and a phone charger. 

If road conditions deteriorate quickly in Newtown PA, Richboro PA or Montgomery County, being prepared can protect your family until help arrives. 

Routine winter maintenance not only keeps your vehicle running smoothly, it protects your passengers and other drivers on the road. While no one can control the weather, you can control how prepared you are for it. 

At Leber Insurance Group, we believe safety starts before an accident ever happens. As the leader in auto insurance in Newtown PA, Bensalem PA, Southampton PA, Yardley PA, Langhorne PA, Richboro PA, Holland PA, Bucks County, Montgomery County, and the Greater Philadelphia Area, we’re committed to helping families stay protected year-round. 

If you have questions about your current auto coverage or want to make sure you’re fully protected this winter, our team is here to help. Contact Leber Insurance Group today for a personalized auto insurance review, and drive confidently no matter what winter brings. 

Contact Leber Insurance Group today to schedule your free insurance review and Quote to see how much you could save on your auto insurance. Let us help you drive with confidence knowing you’re protected by the best coverage at the best rate possible.  

Leber Insurance Group: your trusted partner for Auto Insurance in Newtown, PA, and beyond. 

More ways to contact: call 267-291-7925, email info@leberinsurancegroup.com or click to Contact Us!