How drivers can prepare their cars as temperatures drop below zero in Metro Detroit

As temperatures drop into the negatives in Metro Detroit, drivers should know a few tips to keep their cars running through the cold weather.

The National Weather Service issued a Cold Weather Advisory for 1 a.m. Friday, Jan. 23, to 10 a.m. Saturday, Jan. 24, for dangerously cold wind chills as low as 25 below zero. Even without the wind chill, temperatures on Saturday morning could be the coldest Metro Detroit has experienced in seven years.

Latest forecast --> Cold Weather Advisory issued for Metro Detroit beginning Friday -- What to know

Here are the tips AAA provided on maintaining your car during the winter weather:

Check tires

Make certain your tires are properly inflated and have plenty of tread.

Check gas tank

Keep at least half a tank of fuel in your vehicle at all times.

Warming up your car

Never warm up a vehicle in an enclosed area, such as a garage.

Using cruise control

Do not use cruise control when driving on any slippery surface, such as on ice and snow.

Maintain car battery

Here are some tips to prevent a dead car battery, according to AAA:

• Test your battery if it’s more than 3 years old
• Park in a garage or sheltered area to reduce exposure to freezing temperatures
• Turn off lights, seat warmers and accessories before turning off the engine
• Listen for slow cranking because it is a key warning sign that your battery is failing

Tips for EV drivers

According to AAA, freezing temperatures can cut EV range by up to 40% and slow charging times.

Here are tips from AAA for EV drivers in the winter:

• Precondition the battery while plugged in to improve range and performance
• Plan for a reduced range and build an extra buffer into every trip
• Use heated seats and steering wheels instead of cabin heat to conserve energy
• Keep the vehicle plugged in during extreme cold to help maintain battery temperature

Keep an emergency kit

AAA recommends drivers keep an emergency kit in their car, especially in the winter. Here’s what should be in the kit:

• Cell phone car chargers
• Flashlight with extra batteries
• Reflective or warning triangles (put outside of the vehicle to signal a breakdown)
• First-aid kit
• Drinking water and non-perishable food for travelers and pets
• Traction aids (sand, salt, non-clumping cat litter, or traction mats)
• Ice scraper or snow brush and shovel
• Gloves, extra coats or sweatshirts, hats, and blankets