6 Ways to Prepare Your Car for Winter
- November 1, 2023
- Sales
- Posted by NeverSayNo
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Used Car Maintenance Tip
Recently bought a used car? Had your vehicle for a while?
Either way, winter can be brutal on cars, which is why it’s vital that drivers properly prepare before conditions turn. Whether you’re driving on the highway or just warming the car up in the driveway, problems can arise in a variety of ways during the winter. With proper maintenance, you can keep your car running for longer and even improve its resale value – learn about resale values. Ensure your vehicle makes it through the winter by following these 6 Steps for Preparing Your Car for Winter! This way you can avoid any unnecessary disasters. If you do experience a problem, be it servicing or body repairs, consider using the services of Levanders Auto – https://www.levanderauto.com/.
1. Test Battery
Battery capacity decreases significantly in cold weather, so it’s important to have a mechanic or use a battery tester to ensure it’s at peak performance. Parking a car in a garage, out of the freezing cold, is another way to protect the battery. Having jumper cables handy is also important, not only if your car breaks down, but also in case you come across another motorist in need of a jump start.
2. Check Tire Pressure & Tread
Good tires are the key to staying on the road and keeping you safe when the weather is questionable and snow and ice are covering the roads. You can do your part to ensure your tires are in good shape with just a few simple steps.
First, check your tire pressure with a simple gauge sold at any auto supply store. Follow your manual’s recommendations for pressure level, and if your tires need air, fill them up. Second, use the “Lincoln test” to make sure your tires have the appropriate amount of tread. Just insert a penny into your tire’s tread with the top of Lincoln’s head pointing inward toward the tire. If you can see all of Lincoln’s head, you need to replace the tire. Even places like Walmart carry spare tires these days, and there may even be some savings to be had online at https://www.raise.com/coupons/walmart that you could use.
3. Inspect Headlights & Brake Lights
It’s vital to have fully functioning headlights and brake lights when dealing with thick winter fog or heavy snow. It helps your own visibility while driving, but also make sure other drivers are able to see you. Plastic headlight lens repair kits can also be found at various retailers if your headlight covers have a haze on them or are looking discolored. Furthermore, you might even want to research how to improve your night time visibility with some more powerful bulbs from somewhere like Xenons Online.
4. Replace or Refill All Fluids
- Coolant– It’s important to have the correct antifreeze/water mixture to prevent fluid from freezing in your radiator. Consult your vehicle’s owner’s manual for information on this mixture. Pick up a tester at an auto parts store and make sure the fluid is filled to the maximum line.
- Oil– Some mechanics recommend switching to a thinner oil if you live where temperatures drop below freezing. Your best bet is to consult your owner’s manual or talk to your mechanic.
