When buying a new or used car, select one that helps keep you safe on snowy and icy roads.

If there’s one thing Michiganders know well it’s winter. With driving conditions that range from snow flurries to whiteouts and freezing rain to black ice, it’s important to be prepared for whatever the season brings our way. When selecting a new or used car, look for the following features that help keep you and your loved ones safe and comfortable.

Drive systems that automatically respond to conditions

Since 2012, all cars have anti-lock brakes (ABS). In slippery conditions, these systems slow the car while allowing the driver to maintain steering control. If you’re buying an older used car, look for one with an ABS system.

Vehicles with all-wheel drive (AWD) are another feature that keeps you safe in conditions where you could lose traction. By sensing when one or more wheels lose grip, AWD systems automatically supply the other tires with power to keep you safely moving.

Have the right tires for the vehicle and conditions

Tires are the only contact between the road and your car. To ensure traction in snowy conditions, make sure you have all-season tires or, better yet, snow tires. Keep in mind, snow tires aren’t meant for year-round use and will wear our faster in warm weather. Some retailers will change out and store off-season tires.

When buying a used car pay attention to the tire tread measurement. Tread depths of 5/23 to 6/23 of an inch remaining mean the tires are worn half-way and drivers will see a substantial decline in performance on slick surfaces, says Consumer Reports.

Warming features that enhance safety

Heated seats are a welcome place to land any time the temperature drops but how are they a safety feature? When you’re comfortable and not distracted by temperature you can maintain better focus on the road.

You could argue that heated steering wheels are a luxury but for many people this feature enhances their safety. For example, people with circulatory problems and arthritis can better grip and control the wheel when it’s warmed.

Another place many automakers have added heaters is side mirrors, keeping your view clear even when there’s fog, rain, snow or ice.

Ground clearance

Combine deep snow and low ground clearance and there’s a high likelihood your car will get stuck. If you live or work where lake-effect snow can fall at rate of two to three inches per hour, ample ground clearance is crucial for safe driving.

Remember safe driving habits and be prepared for the unexpected

Driving on wintry roads can be a challenge even in a car equipped with the all the latest safety features. Remember to slow down, increase following distance and allow extra time to reach your destination.

Keep your windshield fluid filled to clear salty slush spray from obscuring your view.

Equip your car with a winter safety kit that includes items to keep warm (gloves, hat, blanket, hand warmers), snacks, a shovel, booster cables and a flashlight with fresh batteries.

Planning to buy a new car?

If you’re about to buy new or used car with better winter safety features check out auto loans from Consumers with competitive rates. Plus, you can get pre-approved so you’ll know exactly how much you can afford.

 

All loans subject to approval. Rates, terms, and conditions are subject to change may vary based on credit worthiness, qualifications, and collateral conditions.”