IS YOUR CAR READY FOR WINTER?
In this part of the country, we typically experience relatively mild temperatures for much of the winter. But the mild weather is often punctuated hard, cold and icy conditions. To help lessen the impact of those hard conditions, we’ve put together a list of things you can do to prepare your car for winter.
Step One: Consult your owner’s manual.
Each vehicle has specific guidelines outlined by its manufacturer to ensure top performance is maintained. Identifying and taking these steps will put you well on your way to having a winter-ready vehicle.
Step Two: Take note of routine maintenance needs.
While most things will be covered in your owner’s manual, the following should be on your list:
• Get all your air filters cleaned so that air flow is not restricted to critical engine parts.
• Use engine oil designed for winter use.
• Check to make sure your engine coolant is the proper type and in the proper coolant/water ratio.
• Inspect your battery system for potential problems (e.g., cracks in the cables, corrosion in terminals, fluid and charge levels, etc.).
Step Three: Check out critical mechanical items.
The following are things to consider that are mechanical in nature:
• Check to make sure your wiper system is working properly (e.g., wiper blades, fluid level, and spraying, etc.).
• Ensure your tire air pressure is at the proper level. Your tires may lose air pressure in colder weather.
• Inspect the tread on your tires and install snow tires if needed.
• Be sure your car heater and defroster are working properly.
In addition to these three steps, it is a good idea to have a game plan should you get trapped in winter weather. For example, keep an emergency kit in your car and develop a family emergency plan to know what to do if someone is stranded.
Taking these proactive steps to ensure you (and your car) are as well prepared as possible for the winter elements can save you time, money, and heartache down the road.
