How to Have a Safe Winter in Your Lexus

When taking the road during wintery weather, preparation is key. The Lexus brand is devoted to safety. Let’s get ready for a safe and smooth ride.

Car Maintenance Tips To Make Winter Driving Safer

Ensuring your safety as well as the safety of others on the road is vital during inclement weather. Start by checking all warning and signaling lights such as emergency flashers, headlights, turn signals, and brake lights are in good working order. 

Furthermore, headlights provide guidance, but windshield wipers clear your view. Windshield wipers help visualize the path ahead, so make sure they are checked for efficiency before the snow begins to fall.  

If your vehicle needs repair, visit our service department for an evaluation of worn blades, lights, or fluids such as windshield wiper fluid with de-icer.

How Temperature Changes Affect Vehicles

During the winter, you can expect many changes in your vehicle. Pay attention to the feel and sound of your car—especially when driving on slippery roads.

One important factor to consider is the condition of the tires due to the dangers of skidding. If the vehicle has all-season tires, consider switching to winter tires. They’re made with flexible sidewalls and tread compounds that remain soft at low temperatures to help prevent skidding. 

Additionally, familiarize yourself with the brake system of the vehicle. Anti-lock brakes (ABS) provide safety when skidding by evaluating the driving situation to determine the amount of braking force necessary when the driver applies the brake pedal firmly. Lexus has several AWD options available including the new 2023 Lexus GX 460.

Another factor during winter conditions is the battery power. When the temperature drops, it is crucial to check the battery because gasoline and diesel engines must use more power to start. Colder temperatures reduce the chemical reaction that produces a charge and prevent the car from using its headlights or simply powering the motor. Hybrid-electric and all-electric vehicles’ driving ranges are greatly reduced during cold weather as well.

Check Your Winter Driving Survival Kit

Before heading outside, check the weather and road conditions. Fill up and stock your vehicle with the following items to help prepare for any weather or emergency situations. Always keep your gas tank at least half full to prevent condensation from freezing in your fuel line, which could prevent the flow of gasoline.   

Prepare your car with the appropriate tools in advance for cleaning and emergencies, such as a scraper, shovel, sand, jumper cables, and flashlights. When cleaning the vehicle, start from the roof and work downward. Clean snow, ice, or mud from the windshield, hood, trunk, lights, mirrors, and especially the exhaust pipe to avoid carbon monoxide poisoning.

Interested in more information, contact our Lexus of Las Vegas staff or find a new Lexus with us today!