Home Inspection Winter Tips: Vehicle preparation

This weeks winter tip has less to do with home inspection. But, since that is the bulk of what we do, I have to sprinkle it in with your winter tips.

If you’re buying a home, you should definitely have it inspected by a certified home inspector that has lot’s of diverse construction experience on which to draw from. That would be your’s truly.

Now on to the tip. This weeks tip is to prepare your vehicle for winter!

Should the worst happen and you skid off the road or get hit by another driver who has lost control, you may find yourself temporarily stranded, injured, or both. If this happens, you will be glad you followed this advice.

For the sake of ease, I think bullet points are in order so here we go:

  • First and foremost is to have a first aid kit in the vehicle. They come in many shapes and sizes so search and find what works for you.
  • Try to ensure you maintain your gas tank at or above 1/2 full throughout the winter months.
  • Keep a warm blanket, flashlight, and some non perishable snacks in the vehicle.
  • A pair of coveralls or extra change of clothes may come in handy.
  • An extra set of gloves and hat in case yours get wet should be easily accessible.
  • Some sand and/or salt in the trunk may come in handy if extra traction is needed
  • Keep an ice scraper in the vehicle. A small shovel may come in handy as well.

Now that we have a few things on the interior for us, how about the vehicle itself? I was always taught that if you took care of your stuff, your stuff would take care of you. Here is a short  list of things you can do to make sure you’re in good running shape for the winter.

  • Stop by your local auto parts store and make sure your battery is in good shape. The test is free, and you may need a new one and not know it yet.
  • Make sure your antifreeze is full and at the appropriate concentration. This can save you a ton of money by preventing engine damage. While you’re at it, have all your fluids checked and topped off as needed.
  • Make sure your tires are properly inflated. Cliche, yes, but very useful.
  • Make sure your brakes are in good working order via inspection or replacement if needed.
  • If needed, a new air filter will  help you with efficiency as your motor likes to be able to breathe just like you do.
  • An oil change to get you through the winter months is always a good idea.
  • A home Inspection will keep you from big ugly surprises after moving in. “Hey! How did this get in here?” 
  • Lastly, windshield wipers and wiper fluid, and plenty of it! It’s cheap so keep a couple gallons at home too.

I hope this short list helps you prepare yourself and your vehicle for winter as it is fast approaching. And, if you or a coworker, friend or family member are buying a home. Make sure to have a home inspection performed by Eastern Iowa Inspection Services.