Is Your Tire Business Ready for the Winter Rush?
Winter is almost here, and that means that tire shops need to be prepared to help their customers prepare for cold weather travel. The holiday season always sees huge numbers of people hitting the road to visit family or have a getaway, and of course, severe weather conditions in many parts of the country will make ordinary day-to-day commuting more difficult for many others. Today on RubberInk, we’ll be giving you a rundown of what your tire shop needs to be prepared for the rush of business winter will bring and offering some reminders about winter driving that you can pass on to your customers.
Supplies to Stock Up On
As you head into this busy season, you’ll want to make sure that your shop has a healthy reserve of consumables and all the gear you’ll need to get the job done safely. Some of the things on our checklist are year-round staples, while others will take on particular importance during the colder months.
Wheel Weights
Of course, you should always have an adequate supply of wheel weights on hand, but since your shop will probably be replacing and balancing more tires than average, consider ordering extra. Rubber-Inc offers a complete selection of both adhesive and clip-on weights.
Tire Studs
Tire studs can significantly improve traction when you’re forced to drive on icy roads. Rubber-Inc carries a comprehensive line of tire stud products by industry leader Bruno Wessel, along with tools and accessories for installation. Make sure to check local laws on tire studs before installing them for your customers.
Chemicals and Lubricants
Freezing temperatures mean freezing air tools. Pick up extra Kilfrost anti-freeze air line and tool lubricant to keep your pneumatic tools performing in the frigid conditions. Don't forget bead sealer to fix or prevent leaks between the tire and rim, as cold weather is known to expose leaks from the bead area. Stock up on all the other essential chemicals and lubricants you’ll need now, before you need them.
TPMS Valves and Sensors
Low temperatures bring low air pressure, which will be setting off TPMS sensors and bringing even more customers to your shop. Many of the vehicles that roll in will have TPMS sensors that are faulty or approaching the end of their lifespan. Rubber-Inc offers TPMS valves, tools, and parts kits.
Interior Protection
In the season of snow and sleet getting tracked inside on shoes, it’s more important than ever to make sure that you keep the inside of customers’ vehicles clean while you’re working on them. We offer paper floor mats, heavy duty seat covers, and other interior protection supplies.
Safety Equipment
Slush on roads also means puddles on the floor of your shop from cars that roll in, and puddles can mean a safety hazard. Soak up any standing water before anyone can slip with soft foam rubber squeegees. Use the Mag Bear 25-ffot retractable belt to quickly section off areas of potential hazards. Protect your employees’ hands from the cold and exposure to grease and chemicals with nitrile work gloves from Ascot.
Shop Lighting
The short days of winter mean your shop will probably stay busy well after the sun goes down. Consider picking up extra flashlights, headlamps, and other work lights.
Air and Energy
Gaither Winnntec’s “Jack the Mech†mobile energy/air booster is a handy time-saver for all your low tire pressure and dead battery jobs. It provides 2000 cranking amps, enough to work even on 48-volt truck systems. The auto start/stop feature means you can set the required pressure for a tire and walk away. The USB outlet means it can also conveniently charge devices like phones and tablets.
Winter Essentials for Your Customers
Prepare your shop for winter by stocking up on essential cold-weather items your customers will need, such as washer fluid, antifreeze, salt, and snow brushes. These high-demand products are not only practical but also provide added convenience for your customers during the colder months. While Rubber Inc. doesn’t carry these specific items, we strongly encourage you to include them in your inventory. Doing so positions your shop as a one-stop solution for customers' winter automotive needs.
Winter Driving Reminders
Winter weather conditions require changes in driving technique and understanding of potential hazards. Even experienced drivers can get into trouble if they’re overconfident in their driving skills or the capabilities of their vehicle. During this busy season, it’s worth taking some time to remind customers about some winter driving basics.
Check your tire pressure Cold temperatures reduce tire pressure, so check at least once a month (preferably when the tires have not been driven on for at least three hours) and reinflate if needed.
Accelerate and decelerate slowly This will help you maintain traction and avoid wheelspin and skids.
Leave more following distance to the car in front This will give more of a margin of safety if you can’t slow down or stop as quickly as you expect due to slick roads.
Handle hills the right way Build up momentum before you start going up a hill instead of hitting the gas as you climb (which can cause wheelspin) and avoid stopping while going uphill if possible.
If you skid Don’t panic! Steer in the direction of the skid, take your foot off the gas, and lightly tap the brakes.
Be prepared Always keep a winter coat, hat, gloves, and blanket in your car just in case.
Get Ready for Winter with Rubber-Inc
For many tire shops, the beginning of winter means a surge in activity. If you’re missing important supplies during this busy season, that could mean missing out on business. Now is the time to take inventory and make sure you have everything you need to handle the high demand for services in the coming months. Rubber-Inc is your one-stop shop. Can’t find something you need? Contact us today. We’re always happy to help!