The cold weather can be unpredictable as well as wreak havoc on any driving conditions, and that includes black ice, low visibility on the road, freezing rain, sleet, and snow. With the help of these tips that D Wells Auto have suggested, you can prepare your car for the winter:
Table of Contents
1. Replace and Check the Battery
Winter won’t go easy on your vehicle’s battery. The winter weather will drain its power quicker than usual. This is why it is important to have your car’s battery tested so as to make sure it is functioning well and fully charged. If your vehicle’s battery has served you for three years or so and show signs of struggle, replace it.
2. Check the Tires
Among the key aspects of preparing your vehicle for winter is to ensure the tires are in good condition. Opt to switch to winter tires that have better traction on snow and ice-covered roads. If you opt to go for all-season tires, make sure they have enough tread depth and are fitted properly so as to maintain stability and traction.
3. Top up the Fluids
When checking the fluids of your vehicle, park it on a flat surface and make sure its engine cools off. Afterward, check the flow of fluids, ensure you use the right ratio, and avoid exceeding the maximum level line. Here are some of the fluids that you need to top up:
- Antifreeze
- Windscreen wiper fluid
- Oil
4. Regularly at the Tire Pressure
You must properly inflate the car tires to ensure firm traction – this is more important in ice, snowy, or wet conditions. Drop in very ambient temperatures will affect the tire pressure, so ensure to regularly look at the tire pressure and refill them. You can find the right air pressure of tires in your vehicle’s owner’s manual.
5. Clear Off the Snow
Ensure you clear off the snow properly using a snow scrapper and brush, then completely inspect the license plate, headlights, hood, roof, mirrors, and windows. Ice and snow falling from your car may injure pedestrians, result in accidents, damage other vehicles, and minimize visibility. Moreover, you can be liable for around $100 fine when your car isn’t cleared properly.
6. Care for the Interior and Exterior
Taking care of the car’s interior and exterior entails a lot. First, it may involve washing the vehicle during winter. This helps to protect the paint and bodywork, preventing the rust and corrosion that salty rainwater causes. You can use a car shampoo to take off the dirt and grime and use a wax polish to reinstate your vehicle’s color.
7. Inspect the Wipers and Lights
Wipers and lights play an important role when it comes to safe driving. The lighting system will provide nighttime visibility and alert as well as signal other drivers. On the other hand, wipers help to keep excessive drive, snow, and water from accumulating on your windshield, maintaining clear visibility.
Staying at home during winter is the best way to stay away from accidents. However, if you must drive during winter, then ensure you prepare your vehicle for the cold winter and have enough supplies, backups, and tools in the car.