Preparing Your Car For Winter Weather
We’re gearing up for another cold winter and it’s important to make sure your vehicle is prepared for the winter weather. Check out these 5 winter weather car care tips for preparing your vehicle.
Check your windshield wiper blades.
Wiper blades should be replaced at least once a year. If turning on your windshield wipers leaves streaks across your windshield, it’s time for a replacement.
Tip: Use Dawn or a dish detergent to clean off your windshield wipers and prevent streaking while using your blades.
Check your antifreeze.
Make sure you’re using good antifreeze or coolant. Antifreeze will keep your coolant from freezing and protect your engine from damage.
Tip: If you’re adding coolant yourself, remember to use a 50/50 mixture of antifreeze and water.
Check your tires.
Check the tire tread and make sure you’re not due for a new set. While snow tires may not be necessary, all-weather tires can help keep you safe in slick conditions.
Tip: Use the penny test to determine safe tire tread. Place a penny head first into your tire tread. If any part of Abraham Lincoln’s head is covered, you have enough tread and probably don’t need a new set of tires. If no part of Lincoln’s head is covered, your tread is below the limit and need to be replaced.
Check the battery.
Batteries fail more often in the wintertime. Have a trusted mechanic test your battery to determine how much life is left in the battery. It’s better to have the battery tested and replaced before you’re stranded on the side of the road in need of a tow truck.
Tip: Carry battery powered jumper cables to give your car the boost it needs to make it to your local auto repair shop (like Integrity Automotive!).
Check your brakes.
While brakes are important year round, the anti-lock brakes are especially important during the winter months. Properly functioning anti-lock brakes significantly improve your ability to come to a stop in a skidding situation.
Tip: Accelerate and decelerate slowly. It takes longer to slow down on icy or snow-covered roads, and your best defense is time. Brake early and easily.
For more, listen to Nate Bean, business owner, talk about tips for winterizing your car.
Tags: car maintenance tips
