Winter Driving Tips
The main attraction in Southern California is the beautiful weather, year-round. But sometimes, it’s fun to visit the Winter – either with a trip to the local mountains or visiting another state that isn’t blessed with our endless summer.
If you’re planning a trip to visit the snow, the California Highway Patrol has some advice:
- Make sure your brakes, windshield wipers, defroster, heater and exhaust system are in top condition.
- Check your antifreeze and be ready for colder temperatures. You may want to add special solvent to your windshield washer reservoir to prevent icing.
- Check your tires. Make sure they are properly inflated and the tread is in good condition.
- Always carry chains. Make sure they are the proper size for your tires and are in working order. Carry a flashlight and chain repair links. Chains must be installed on the drive wheels. Make sure you know if your vehicle is front or rear wheel drive.
- Other suggested items to carry in your car are an ice scraper or commercial deicer, a broom for brushing snow off your car, a shovel to free your car if it's "snowed in," sand or burlap for traction if your wheels should become mired in snow; and an old towel to clean your hands.
- It is also a good idea to take along water, food, warm blankets and extra clothing. A lengthy delay will make you glad you have them.
- Put an extra car key in your pocket. A number of motorists have locked themselves out of their cars when putting on chains and at ski areas.
- Allow enough time. Trips to the mountains can take longer during winter than other times of year, especially if you encounter storm conditions or icy roads. Get an early start and allow plenty of time to reach your destination.
- Keep your gas tank full. It may be necessary to change routes or turn back during a bad storm or you may be caught in a traffic delay.
- Keep windshield and windows clear. You may want to stop at a safe turnout to use a snow or ice scraper. Use the car defroster and a clean cloth to keep the windows free of fog.
- Slow down. A highway speed of 55 miles an hour may be safe in dry weather - but an invitation for trouble on snow and ice. Snow and ice make stopping distances much longer, so keep your seat belt buckled and leave more distance between your vehicle and the vehicle ahead. Bridge decks and shady spots can be icy when other areas are not. Remember to avoid sudden stops and quick direction changes.
- Be more observant. Visibility is often limited in winter by weather conditions. Slow down and watch for other vehicles and for snow equipment. Even though snow removal vehicles have flashing lights, visibility may be so restricted during a storm that it is difficult to see the slow moving equipment.
- When stalled, stay with your vehicle and try to conserve fuel while maintaining warmth. Be alert to any possible exhaust or monoxide problems.
What you need to know about chains:
- You must stop and put on chains when highway signs indicate chains are required. You can be cited by the California Highway Patrol and fined if you don't. You will usually have about a mile between "Chains Required" signs and the checkpoint to install your chains.
- Control areas can change rapidly from place to place because of changing weather and road conditions. The speed limit when chains are required is 25 or 30 miles an hour and will be posted along the highway.
- When you must put on chains, wait until you can pull completely off the roadway to the right. Do not stop in a traffic lane where you will endanger yourself and block traffic.
- Chain Installers: If you use the services of a chain installer, be sure to get a receipt and jot the installer's badge number on it. Remember, chain installers are independent business people, not CHP employees. Having the badge number may help with any misunderstandings later. Chain installers are NOT allowed to sell or rent chains.
- When removing chains, drive beyond the signs reading "End Chain Control" to a pull-off area where you can safely remove them.
What It Means and Why Prompt Diagnostics Matter
Don’t Wait Until It’s Too Late, Keep Your Brakes in Top Shape Your brakes are your car’s most important safety system , but they’re also one of the most frequently overlooked. At North County Automotive , we’ve seen how minor brake issues can turn into dangerous (and expensive) problems when ignored. Knowing the warning signs of brake trouble can help you stay safe and avoid costly repairs down the road . If you notice any of the following symptoms, it’s time to schedule immediate brake service . 1. Squeaking or Squealing Sounds A high-pitched squeak when you apply the brakes is one of the first signs your brake pads are wearing thin. Most brake pads are designed with wear indicators that emit this sound to alert you that it’s time for a replacement. While it may not be an emergency at first, letting it go too long can lead to metal-on-metal contact , which can damage your rotors and make repairs much more expensive. 2. Grinding Noises A grinding or growling noise usually means your brake pads are completely worn out , and the metal backing is now scraping against your rotors. This not only compromises your stopping ability but can cause severe damage to your brake system. At this stage, your brakes are no longer just due for service; they need urgent attention. 3. Spongy or Soft Brake Pedal If your brake pedal feels soft, spongy, or sinks to the floor when you press it, you may have air in the brake lines , a leaking brake fluid system , or worn components . This poses a serious safety risk, as it significantly reduces your ability to stop quickly in an emergency. Spongy brakes are often a sign of hydraulic system failure and should be inspected right away. 4. Vibrations or Pulsing When Braking Feeling a vibration or pulsation through the brake pedal ? This often means your brake rotors are warped or unevenly worn . Warped rotors can compromise braking efficiency, increase stopping distance, and cause damage to the entire braking system if not corrected. Replacing or resurfacing the rotors can restore smooth, responsive braking. 5. Brake Warning Light is On If your brake warning light (or ABS light) is illuminated on your dashboard, don’t ignore it. Modern vehicles are equipped with sensors to alert you to potential problems in the braking system, from low brake fluid to sensor malfunctions or ABS issues. Driving with an illuminated brake light can put you and others at risk. Always have it inspected by a professional. 6. The Car Pulls to One Side When Braking When your car pulls to the left or right while braking, it may be due to: Uneven brake pad wear Stuck calipers Contaminated brake fluid Brake line problems This can affect your control and handling , especially in emergency braking situations. A pulling sensation is a clear indicator that one side of your braking system isn’t functioning correctly. 7. Burning Smell During or After Driving A sharp, chemical-like burning smell after hard braking or going downhill may indicate overheated brakes . This can happen when your pads or rotors are wearing thin, or if a caliper is stuck and causing excessive friction. If you smell burning while driving, pull over safely and let the brakes cool down . Continued driving could lead to brake failure or fire in extreme cases. Why Prompt Brake Service Matters Brake problems don’t fix themselves; they only get worse with time. Acting quickly not only helps you stay safe , it can also save you hundreds of dollars by preventing damage to rotors, calipers, and other components. At North County Automotive, we perform comprehensive brake inspections and repairs , including: Brake pad and rotor replacement Brake fluid flushes Caliper repairs and replacements ABS diagnostics Full-system inspections Feel Something Off? Get Your Brakes Checked Today. If your car is showing any of the signs above, don’t wait. Your brakes are your first line of defense on the road , and delaying service can put your safety at risk.
