If you happen to live in one of the many parts of the world that experiences cold and snowy winter conditions, then you likely know what the preparation process entails, should you want to venture out in your vehicle. You must adjust your driving habits in order to meet changing road conditions.
That being said, did you know that you also need to prepare your car for the changing weather and that you should do so before the first snowflake falls? Below, Body Pros Collision offers 7 winter car care tips to help you prepare for and care for your car during the winter months.
IMAGE: PEXELS
1. Invest In Four Decent Winter Tires
The most obvious thing that you can (and should) do to prepare your car for harsher winter road conditions is to invest in four high-quality winter tires. You might think that all season tires will suffice, but this just isn’t true. Think of all season tires as running shoes and winter tires as ice skates – which would you rather have on the icy roads?
2. Visit The Car Wash
Washing your car in the winter might seem counter-productive, but slush, salt, ice, and sand can all wreak havoc on your car’s exterior. Body Pros Collision says it’s best to be proactive and give your car a decent wash and wax before the season starts. You should spend some time on the tires and grille area to prevent build-up.
3. Change Your Oil
In order for your car to run optimally during the colder and less forgiving winter season, you should monitor oil levels to make sure that they aren’t too low and that the oil is maintaining proper consistency. You should also consult your vehicle owner’s manual to confirm that you are using the proper type of oil.
4. Make Sure Your Windshield Wiper Blades Are In Good Repair
Body Pros Collision cites working wiper blades as especially key when it comes to ensuring your safety on the road. There is nothing more distressing than not being able to see clearly when you are already up against icy conditions. Make sure you are using windshield washer fluid that was made for cold temperatures and that fluid levels stay high.
5. Make Sure The Heating System Works Before Temperatures Drop
Getting into your car on a cold winter morning only to find that the heater doesn’t work is an awful experience. Verify that the heating system (and defrost mechanisms) work before the wintertime so that you can make necessary repairs before the cold weather hits.
6. Have The Radiator Checked
According to the professionals at Body Pros Collision, low radiator fluid levels (or bd antifreeze) can cause lines to freeze or create a build-up that will eventually result in leaks or failed transmissions. Either check your radiator and antifreeze levels yourself or have a mechanic do a winter maintenance check for you.
7. Start Your Engine At Least Once A Week, If You Aren’t A Daily Driver
Some people wrongly believe that they need to start their car well in advance to allow the engine time to warm up prior to driving. Body Pros Collision says this simply isn’t true. A car’s engine will warm up quickly as it drives around, not as it sits. If you don’t drive regularly, try to make it a habit to start your car at least once a week just to make sure that fluids are moving around and everything is working as it should.
Final Words
The cold winter conditions can cause drastic negative experiences when on the road. By following these steps outlined by the experts at Body Pros Collision, you can better prepare for these circumstances before they can cause problems.
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