The harsh winters we have to deal with can sometimes be inconvenient and a little uncomfortable. Where possible it is always best to prepare and think ahead of what the winter can throw at us. When it comes to Winterizing your car. There are a lot of things that not only you can do… a lot of these things you definitely should be doing for personal safety as well as saving a pretty penny along the way.
1. Get an oil change: This one is often overlooked as the cold weather approaches. It is however a very important step in winterizing your car. Oil will thicken as it gets colder and if your oil is not able to keep the engine lubricated you will be running into trouble very quickly. The owner’s manual of any car will include information on the right type of oil to use for different temperatures.
2. Windshield wiper replacement: When the first snow or freezing rain hits, the last thing you want to have to contend with is a lack of visibility due to old blades. If you are unsure of the last time you replaced your windshield wiper blades, then it is probably long overdue. Having a clear field of view, when driving is essential to your safety and the safety of your passengers. While we’re looking at your windows, make sure that the heater works well also.
3. Battery Check: Making sure that the battery is in perfect working order should be on everyone’s Christmas list. This check includes ensuring that the connections have not corroded and that the wires are in working order. The last thing you want to do is have the battery fail when you are stuck in a snowstorm. Asking a stranger for a jump start is not always a safe option for anyone.
4. Belts and hoses: Even though you may not be a mechanic, anyone can spot a tear in a belt or damage to a hose. Catching these problems as early as possible can help avoid unexpected breakdowns.
5. All important tire pressure check. In adverse weather conditions, tire pressure really does matter. Tires that are not fully inflated will not have as much traction on the road. A loss in traction can be fatal. Checking the manual of your vehicle will help you identify how much to fill each of your tires. You should also consider that the pressure of the tires will fluctuate in different temperatures. So if a cold snap happens, a quick double check of the pressure is well worth the effort.
6. Snow tires: If you live in an area that gets a lot of snow, snow tires are a must. The extra traction and peace of mind that this change makes is well worth the expense. One thing to bear in mind here is that you must ask for all of the charges to be explained up front. Sometimes there are additional charges for mounting the tires. For extra security, replacing tires with ‘run on flat’ tires is recommended as well.
7. Four wheel drive? This can be a godsend when trying to navigate snow covered roads. The thing to check here is that the system works, and can be turned off easily. Also, making sure that everyone who needs to use the care understands when and how to use the four wheel drive system is a must.
Driving in the wintertime in less than optimal conditions does not need to be hazardous. With a few simple precautions and preparations, driving in the winter can be quite fun.