Winter Daily Driving Dos and Don’ts

We’ve all thought it before as we drive during Michigan winters: “Has that person ever driven in the snow?!” 

There are a few important things to remember as you set out on the road so you aren’t one of the people others are questioning. 

Slow down

We all know it’s important to slow down when the roads are slick, but that’s not just your rolling speed. Increase the distance between you and the vehicle in front of you so you can gently brake when you need to. This will help you avoid an accident. Being gentle with your acceleration can also help increase your traction and control. 

Clear those windows

It’s hard to see without clearing your windows properly. Clearing your windows all the way around your vehicle is so important! Even on frigid cold mornings when you’re tempted to skip it, removing ice and snow gives you the best ability to see what’s happening around you, so you can respond quickly. For those vehicles that come with an automatic start, setting your controls to defrost can help start the clearing process before you have to scrape. 

Fill your fluids

Check your fluid levels before the weather starts getting cold and pay close attention to your anti-freeze and your oil since those two are heavy-duty workers in the winter. Other good ideas include using windshield wiper fluid that’s rated for cold weather – you don’t want that to freeze – and keeping your gas tank at least half-full to prevent that from freezing in the lines.

To ensure you get where you're going safely this winter, read more here!

Schedule Service on Your Asian or European Vehicle Today!

We’d love to be your go-to repair shop to help ensure you and your family are safe. Bring your vehicle to ArborMotion and we’ll have it running in tip-top shape in no time! At ArborMotion, we care about your safety! No question is too big or small. Call ArborMotion for domestic and European auto repair at 734-761-1088  to schedule your appointment today!  

How Do You Deal with Black Ice?

Have you ever hit black ice while driving in the winter? Are you aware of how to keep your vehicle under control when dealing with black ice?

Black ice is a thin layer of ice that forms on bridges, overpasses, and along shady spots of the road. Black ice is clear, making it difficult to see, which makes it very dangerous. 

As you travel on snowy and icy roadways, here are a few ways you can handle black ice:

• Keep your steering wheel as straight as possible. It’s much easier to coast over an icy patch if you’re going straight and not turning your wheel. 
• Contrary to your first inclination, don’t brake! Braking can cause your car to slip and slide out of control, especially if you hit your brakes hard. 
• Let your foot come off the accelerator pedal to slow your speed. Black ice is one of the biggest reasons to leave extra space between you and cars in front of you - you need room to safely slow down.

Black ice is often a just patch on the roadway, typically less than 20 feet (approximately the length of a standard SUV). By maintaining focus and controlling your steering and deceleration, you should be able to slowly glide over patches of potentially dangerous black ice and arrive at your destination without incident. 

To ensure you get where you're going safely this winter, read more here!

Schedule Service on Your Asian or European Vehicle Today!

We’d love to be your go-to repair shop to help ensure you and your family are safe. Bring your vehicle to ArborMotion and we’ll have it running in tip-top shape in no time! At ArborMotion, we care about your safety! No question is too big or small. Call ArborMotion for domestic and European auto repair at 734-761-1088  to schedule your appointment today!