Flagstaff winters are not like Phoenix winters. You have to cope with actual snow, slippery mornings, and temperatures that drop well below freezing. Getting your automobile ready the right way might save you a lot of trouble when the snow truly starts to fall. And it might even save your life! This is how most folks up there deal with it:
1. Tires Are the Most Important Thing.
In Flagstaff, snow tires or strong all-season tires are not optional; they are necessary for survival. The city gets about 100 inches of snow every year, and the roadways may get slippery quickly. Around November, a number of people in the area switch to winter tires and don’t take them off until March or April. Chains aren’t often utilized around town, but it’s a good idea to have a set if you’re going into the mountains or through higher passes.
2. Antifreeze and Fluids
Check to see if your coolant/antifreeze combination is ready for cold weather. A 50/50 combination is relatively common, but a store in town can test it for you to be sure it won’t freeze. The kind of windshield washer fluid you should use in the winter is the kind that won’t freeze in the tank. The blue material that comes from Phoenix will turn into a chunk of ice. If your car’s manual says to use a lower-viscosity oil in cold weather, you might want to switch to one. Also, make sure your oil and transmission fluid are full.
3. Battery Check
Batteries don’t work well in cold weather. It’s a good idea to load-test yours before the first big storm if it’s more than three years old. A lot of people in Flagstaff have a jump starting pack in the trunk because you never know when the cold will kill a battery overnight. This is very important. You don’t want to be stuck in this weather!
4. Visibility and Wipers
Cheap wipers don’t last long in snow and ice. Get some winter wiper blades. They are a little heavier, but they stay flexible even when it’s frigid outside. And don’t forget to add the freeze-proof chemical to the washer fluid. A little brush and ice scraper set is a must-have for the glovebox.
5. Emergency Supplies
People in the area usually keep:
- A warm coat or blanket
- If you can afford it, leather gloves and a good wool cap will keep you warm.
- A little shovel (useful if you get stranded in the snow)
- A bag of sand or kitty litter will help you get traction. A couple of bags of kitty litter in the trunk of a station wagon is a good old-fashioned suggestion that gives you a bit extra traction. Every little bit helps!
- A flashlight and some nibbles. It’s not too much; storms can come up rapidly and make travel hard.
6. Keep It Running
When gas tanks are half filled or more, they don’t freeze as easily. You also don’t want to be trapped on I-17 with the fuel light on, waiting for a snowplow.
7. Don’t Forget the Basics
Tires can burst far more readily in cold weather than in a Phoenix winter, so check the pressure periodically.
- Before the first freeze, check your heater and defroster.
- Use silicone spray to lubricate the door seals so they don’t freeze shut.
Getting your automobile ready for a Flagstaff winter is largely about making sure the tires, fluids, and visibility are all good, as well as planning for emergencies. If you take care of those items, you’ll be good with the snow.
At Heath’s Auto Service, our expertise isn’t limited by make or model — we handle them all. Whether you drive a vintage classic or the latest high-tech marvel, our team is adept at providing top-tier auto repair services tailored to your vehicle’s unique needs. From routine maintenance to intricate repairs, we’ve got you covered. Request an appointment with our experienced team right here!
