Take time to make sure you are prepared for winter and it will save you money in repairs and prevent accidents from happening. Before you know it, temperatures will cool off and there will be snow on the ground. The colder months ahead can really take their toll on your vehicle. A few simple preventative measures taken now will keep your car safe and in good condition during the long, harsh winter ahead.
Get an oil change. Take a look at your owner’s manual to make sure what kind of oil to use. Oil gets thicker as it gets cooler so it won’t do a good job in lubricating or turning your engine over if it’s to thick.
When is the last time you changed your windshield wiper blades? If they are not clearing the rain well, then they probably will not move the slush and snow when you need them the most. Get a new set put on.
Change the windshield fluid. Make sure it is rated for below freezing temperatures or else you may need to replace all of the fluid lines if they crack and freeze below zero.
Check your antifreeze. Make sure you have a 50/50 ratio of antifreeze and water. If you are not sure, drain it and start with new pre mixed antifreeze.
Snow Tires. Snow tires are made using a different type of rubber that sticks to snow and ice better. Changing your tires sooner than later is a good idea. You never know when freezing rain or frost may come.
Check your tire pressure and make sure it’s where it should be. Once again, air condenses in cold weather and your tires may look flat.
Be equipped for winter. Do you have: snow brushes, ice scrappers, first aid kit, flairs, jumper cables, blankets, flashlights and candles?
Check your Battery. If your battery is weak, has corroded cables or connectors, consider replacing it. Batteries only have a four to six year life expectancy.
Check your breaks. Take your car in for a break inspection. Here are a few signs that you should get your breaks looked at: when you break, your car pulls to one side or another, you hear a grinding or squeaking noise and especially if the pedal feels to soft when you press down to stop.
Check your car’s hoses and belts. Usually a car is due for a tune up every 50,000 kilometers so have them inspected. With winter coming your hoses and belts could snap or break in the cold.
Make sure you can defrost your windows and your heater is working. There is nothing worse than not being able to see through the fog or freezing inside while trying to steer.
Start to keep your fuel tank full so that you don’t have condensation building up and water forming. If the built up water freezes it could block the flow of gas to your engine or dilute the remaining gas.
Hope this simple reminder helps keep you safe throughout the winter months. For more valuable tips and information, visit www.prudentvaluecars.com
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