Tips to winterize your vehicle
Heading out on the road this winter? Buzz60’s TC Newman has tips for getting your vehicle ready for the cold weather.
Winter can be a cozy time of year. However, the weather can often wreak havoc on your vehicle. Let's take a moment to discuss a few things that you can do to winterize your car.
Photo by Ferdinand Stöhr
Check Your Fluids
One of the most important things to consider when winter rolls around is the level of your fluids. Coolant helps to ensure that your radiator doesn't freeze. So take a look at the maximum line. If it's below the line, then it's an indication that you need to add more.
Make sure that you check your oil. If the current temperatures are below freezing, then you may want to switch to thinner oil. Also, go in for regular oil changes.
It's also important to check your windshield wiper fluid. There are two types of wiper formulas: winter and summer. While both can be effective, the winter fluid is specifically formulated to protect visibility during colder temperatures. This makes it much easier to clean your windows when it's cold.
Guard Your Paint
The winter months can be rough on your paint job. If your paint job is inconsistent, then the temperature can cause the paint to warp. Not only can the temperatures damage the paint, but so can all of the salt on the roads during winter. The best way to protect your paint during the winter is by waxing your car. This adds an extra layer to fight against these conditions.
Car with winter tires on snowy road
Replace the Tires
If your tires are deflated and worn, then driving on slick roads will be especially dangerous in the winter. And that's because it will be difficult to maintain control of the vehicle. So you must check your tire pressure. Use a gauge and then compare it to the PSI that's recommended by your owner's manual.
If your tires are bald or have very little tread, then it's time to replace them. If your area gets a lot of snow during the winter, then it's a good idea to invest in snow tires. The best thing about snow tires is that they're designed to offer the traction that you need on extremely slippery roads. However, you may also consider purchasing all-season tires if you want to get the most out of your investment.
Replace Your Blades
Rainfall can be especially dangerous when you're having a hard time seeing out of your windshield. So replace your wiper blades so that you know that they're in great shape. If you're not sure about whether your blades need to be replaced, then pay attention to the sounds they make. Do you notice scratching noises? Also, are your blades leaving marks behind? If so, you need to purchase a new pair as soon as possible.
Photo by Alvis TaurÄ?ns
Change the Battery
Car batteries tend to perform differently in colder weather. They have a reduced capacity. You need to inspect yours and make sure that it's still in good shape. If you notice that the case is starting to crack, the cables are beginning to break, or that the connections are disrupted, then you need to replace it. Also, pay attention to the fluid levels. If they're low, then you may need to add more distilled water. Even if you don't notice any of these signs, it's a good idea to have your battery tested to make sure that it's in good shape.
Check Your Defroster and Heater
When it comes to visibility, there's nothing more important than your defroster. A working defroster will rid your windshield of fog within seconds. Turn the defroster on and off to ensure that it's in working order. If not, then you may need to get a mechanic to take a look at it. If you want to stay warm this winter, then you should also check your heater.
A lot of drivers have issues with their cars during the winter. Fortunately, many of these issues can be avoided if you're proactive. So make sure that you take the proper steps to ensure that your car is ready for the harsh winter.
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