Winter driving can turn what is usually a pleasant early morning pootle to work into an adventurous, dangerous, white knuckle ride sometimes.
So, it is always a good idea to have all of the right car accessories to keep your car safe, and in good shape, during the coldest months of the year. Let’s take a look at some of them now.
- Mud Flaps Keep the Mess Away
Mud flaps. These underappreciated accessories of winter driving are the one thing you need to keep your car’s undercarriage clean and safe. They keep all the slush, salt, and road gunk away, protecting your car’s paint and preventing rust. Plus, they give your car a rugged, “I can handle anything” look, even if you’re just driving to the grocery store.
- Boot Liners to Keep It All Clean
Next up, we have the all-important boot liners. If you’re hauling anything from snow-covered boots to a Christmas tree, a good boot liner is a must-have for your car’s trunk. It protects against spills, dirt, and the mysterious sticky stuff that somehow always finds its way into your vehicle, which means much less cleanup for you. Not only that, but the liner itself is easy to clean and simple to install. Basically, they’re the MVP of car interior protection.
- Winter Tires: Your Car’s Snow Shoes
Winter tires are not just regular tires with a fancy name and (often) a significant markup. They’re to cars what snowshoes are to humans. Designed to grip the road in cold temperatures, they reduce the chances of you doing an impromptu ice dance with your vehicle. Consider them a non-negotiable if you live where snow and ice are more common than sunshine in winter.
- Ice Scraper and Snow Brush: The Dynamic Duo
An ice scraper and snow brush are the Batman and Robin of winter car accessories. Forget using a credit card to scrape your windshield (yes, we’ve all done it). A proper ice scraper and snow brush combo will save you time, effort, and frozen fingers.
- Emergency Kit: Just in Case
An emergency kit is essential. Pack it with blankets, snacks, water, a first-aid kit, and maybe a flare or two (for that dramatic flair). It’s like having a survival kit when venturing into the great unknown (or just a snowed-in parking lot).
- Jumper Cables: Revive and Survive
Jumper cables – because batteries and cold weather go together like oil and water. There’s nothing worse than a car that won’t start when it’s freezing outside. Keep these in your car to avoid getting stranded or to be the hero for someone who is.
- Heated Seat Covers for Toasty Buns
If your car doesn’t come with heated seats, fret not. Heated seat covers are here to save the day (and your backside). They’re like a warm hug on a cold day and make getting into a freezing car slightly less miserable.
- Windshield Washer Fluid: The Clear View
Last but not least, windshield washer fluid made for winter use is a must. Regular fluid can freeze, but winter formulas are designed to de-ice your windshield in a snap. It’s like having anti-freeze for your windshield.
Winter driving can be far from ideal, so the right accessories really can make a huge difference. Make it happen!
