Is your car ready for winter? It is important in all seasons to take your vehicle to the auto shop for its routine maintenance visits, but in the winter it is less than desirable to have your car break down on the way to wherever you need to get to. Stay on the road safely by keeping up with these very important checks.
Oil Change
When the weather turns colder your oil grows thicker, which affects its distribution to your engine. Therefore, keeping up your regular oil changes is crucial to keeping your car running smoothly.
Battery Check
In colder months, it takes more power from your battery to get your car started. In order to avoid waking to a dead battery, have your trusted technician run a battery load test for battery health. Take a look at your battery connections and terminals for any corrosion.
Maintenance Inspection
This is a no-brainer for the life and maintaining the quality of your car. This includes routine oil and filter changes, yearly inspections, and following up on warnings on the vehicle displays.
Wipers
When the storms hit, you will want a functioning wiper and fluid to help clean excess debris and salt. Check your wipers and windshield wiper fluid levels before the temperatures drop.
Tires & Air Pressure
Cold weather causes a drop in air pressure of about 1PSI per 10-degree drop. It is important to do monthly checks, or even when there is a substantial dip in the degrees. Keeping an eye on the wear of your tires as well as keeping up with regular rotations is a highly recommended safety precaution with cold temperatures on the way.
Heat & Defrost
A working heater and defroster are vital for your comfort and safety during the winter. Keeping your windows from fogging up is necessary if you ever plan to travel in inclement weather.
Belts & Hoses
If your belts and hoses are already cracking or wearing, the cold will only exacerbate and weaken them further. A visual check should be enough to identify any problem areas.
Yes, a car wash!
Because salt is corrosive to your vehicle if left untreated after driving on chemical or salt-treated roads, give your car a bath.
Emergency Kit?
If you do not have an emergency kit already, put one together now. One with a flashlight, flares, a jack, bottled water, snacks, blankets, a first aid kit, a tool kit, a shovel, and sand to help unstick yourself or gain traction in the snow.
