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Driving in the snow is difficult enough and having to worry about mechanical issues as the temperature drops is even more stressful. So before the cold season finally arrives, make sure that you take into consideration these tips to have a worrisome winter.
1. Have Your Battery Tested
Don’t wait until it’s too late before you get your battery inspected. Winter temperatures can be very unforgiving and it can take a toll on your battery. Your car battery hates the cold, so it’s best to park your car in a garage to help protect it. Always remember to keep your battery fully charged to be sure that your engine will start when you’ll use it.
If you’re still unsure of what to do, get professionals to help you make sure that your car battery is ready for the winter season.
2. Change Your Fluids
When the temperature drops, the oil, and transmission fluid becomes thick and more viscous. When the oil thickens, your oil pump will wear out faster since it needs to work twice as hard to lubricate the engine. So how do we handle this? – change your fluids before winter comes.
Check your owner’s manual to know the right kind of oil for your car. But if you’re uncertain, you can always get expert advice from your mechanic.
3. Trade Your Current Tires for Winter Tires
You might be thinking that your all-season tire offers enough traction on icy roads, but when the temperature drops to a negative, you’ll have a harder time controlling your tires. Different tires are built for a different purpose; this is why it’s more fitting to trade your current tire for winter tires for extreme weather conditions. They provide more traction on the road and more control for you during the winter season.
4. Make Sure That Your Lights Are Illuminating Properly
It’s important to make sure that your headlights and taillights are shining bright and working properly during winter. Poor visibility can put a lot of strain on you. So if you notice your lights weaken, replace them immediately.
Over time, the cover on your lights will turn yellowish and prevents your lights to become brighter. Well, you don’t have to get all your headlight assembly replaced, it just needs more love and care, and a lot more polishing. Just visit your local hardware store and look for a headlight lens restorer.
5. Check Your Brakes
The most common brake problems during winter are worn out brake lines and rust. Although the cold weather does not directly affect your brake, what you do to the brake during winter is what causes issues. With the icy and slippery roads, your brakes are going to take a lot of beating during winter compared to other seasons. Make sure that you’ve had your brakes checked regularly and brake pads replaced.
6. Give Your Car an Extra Paint Coat
Remember to keep your car clean especially during winter. Road salt, which is used to de-ice the roads, can damage your car. It can scratch your car and expose the interior shell which will contribute to your car rusting rapidly. To help protect the paint on your car from road salt and snow damage, use a paint coating or paint sealant.
7. Replace Your Wiper Blades
You might be thinking that windshield wipers are not as vital as the other parts of your car but it’s important for safe driving. You’re going to have to rely on your wiper to clean your windshield in case of rain, dust, small debris, and snow that is covering your windshield. Wiper blades usually are good for up to a year so ensure to replace them once a year. Winter wiper fluid is as important as replacing your wiper blades since regular water won’t work properly in cold temperatures.
Key Take-Away
The winter season can be detrimental to everyone. By taking into consideration these few simple tips, you’re sure to have a worry-free winter wonder season. Bear in mind that winter is not just a simple temperature drop but it comes with heavy snow, slush, icy roads, and everything in between so give your car some love when it’s cold outside.