Winterize your car with basic maintenance not just to keep your car running smoothly in that nasty weather, but to reduce the risk of accidents and avoid costly vehicle repairs.
Be sure to follow these practical and affordable ten tips to winterize your car:
Winterize Your Car with A Basic Tune Up.
This should include cleaning or replacing the spark plugs and, on older cars, the distributor cap and rotor. A tune up can also include replacing the fuel filter, oxygen sensor, PCV valve, and spark plug wires.
Change Your Oil and Filters.
Be sure to get a timely oil change, using the proper oil for winter. A 5W oil is typically what is recommended for winter use. If you use synthetic oil, it can be formulated to flow even more easily when cold. Replace worn filters including oil, air, fuel, and transmission filters.
Maintain or Improve your Brakes for the Icy Winter.
Icy roads are even more dangerous when your brakes are uneven or worn. Have them checked to be sure they are equalized and don’t pull to one side.
Check your Tires for Winter Driving.
Check your tires for tread wear and pressure. Remember that when temperatures go down, your tire pressure goes down as well. Consider improving your car’s traction in the snow by installing winter or snow tires on all four wheels.
Have Your Battery Tested for Winter.
Car batteries do not like cold weather. Check your battery to ensure that the connections are tight, clean, and corrosion-free, especially if you’ve had the same battery for a few years.
Winterize your Car with new Windshield Wipers.
Ideally, you should replace your wipers twice a year. Closely check your windshield for dings and cracks which can signal that it’s time for a new windshield. A clear view of traffic is essential, especially when the weather is less than optimal. This is also the time to buy cold-weather washer fluid and make sure the tank is filled.
Heaters and Defrosters Need to Function to Melt that Snow.
Have your auto mechanic inspect your heater and defroster for proper functioning. You don’t want either to fail when your comfort and clear viewing are vital to safe driving. This can be a costly fix, so checking early is key.
Cooling System.
Every few years your cooling system should be flushed by a professional with an effective chemical cleaner and filled with new antifreeze. Summer and winter mixes are different, so it is important to get the right mix of water to antifreeze. When checking the cooling system, your mechanic can also inspect the system’s belts, hoses, containers, pressure caps and thermostat.
Exhaust System.
Carbon monoxide leaks are even more dangerous in the winter when your car windows are closed. Have your mechanic check your muffler and tail pipes for any issues.
Keep Your Gas Tank Filled.
A full gas tank allows you to keep your engine running for warmth should you become stranded while on the road. Having plenty of fuel will also help if you are in a traffic jam, stopped or proceeding very slowly.
Bonus Tip: Winterize your Car with a Car Detail.
A fresh coat of wax can help protect the paint from snow and salt damage.
These guidelines outline the significant areas your auto mechanic should inspect to discover any potential problems that can leave you out in the cold.
If you have questions or want to schedule a winterizing inspection, give BDR Automotive a call at 508-429-4720 or email us.
Winterize your Car with BDR Automotive Today!