Tips on Getting Your Car Ready for Winter

As the cold weather once again sets in, now is the time to get your car ready for winter. The chilly weather can take a toll on your car, and it is likely one of your largest investments. In order to prevent a break down in the middle of a snowstorm, there are a few steps you should follow.

1. Oil Change

Oil is necessary to keep the working parts of the engine well lubricated, and, on most vehicles, it should be changed every 5,000 miles. During the colder months, oil tends to thicken, and this decreases its effectiveness. When changing the oil, refer to your owner’s manual to ensure you are using the correct viscosity for optimal performance.

2. Antifreeze

The engine gets hot once the vehicle is started and driven for a few miles. Therefore, it takes coolant to keep it from overheating. However, after sitting outside in the cold, improper coolant can freeze, and this can wreak havoc on your vehicle. It is important to ensure there is plenty of antifreeze in your coolant reservoir to ensure this does not happen to you. Never replace water with coolant, even during the summer months.

3. Special Considerations for Tires in the Winter

During the winter months, tire pressure drops. Especially tires with slow leaks, it is crucial to check and make sure your tires are all at the appropriate levels. If you have a problem tire or if any are showing steel belt, it is well worth the investment to have them replaced before we get any further into the cold season.

4. Check the Belts and Hoses

Even if your car is a newer model, it is important to check all of the belts and hoses now. Just like with the tires, cold weather can cause them damage, and it is better to find out sooner than later that there is a problem.

5. Check Your Battery

A bad connection can leave you stuck out in the cold trying to figure out why you have lost power. Now is a great time to check your battery connectors for corrosion and ensure it has the proper amount of fluid. Furthermore, if your battery is more than three years old, have it tested for its ability to hold a charge by a certified mechanic.

6. Replace Wiper Blades

With winter comes snow, ice, and sleet, and this is the most important time of year to ensure you wiper blades are sufficient and intact. Even if they seem to be working fine, it is a good idea to be proactive and change them before you find yourself in a sticky situation.