It’s time to prepare your car for winter
JUST as you dress yourself in extra layers and winterize your house to protect it from the cold, your car needs extra preparation to make it through the winter as well. But getting ready is only half the battle.
Winter driving conditions also mandate driving differently. Snow and ice need to be taken seriously and prepared for.
Hopefully, by the time winter’s first storm hits, most people are prepared with a closet full of heavy coats and boots. This winter, make sure your car is as prepared as you are.
Going the extra mile by getting your vehicle ready for winter and learning what it takes to drive safely through ice and snow could save your life.
Unfortunately, there’s no getting around winter. Instead of dreading it, prepare for it. The changing of the seasons is a great time to check out what your car needs to gear up for cold, wet, winter driving conditions.
Do this before the nights really close in and the weather worsens because small problems you ignored during warmer months could grow worse, leaving you stranded when the temperature plummets. A few simple tips could keep your car running all winter long.
Take your car to a mechanic and check out the following: battery, antifreeze level, thermostat, heater, brakes, and defroster.
Check to make sure your tyres have adequate tread. If the treads are worn, replace them.
Make a visual inspection of your vehicle’s lights. Make sure the front and rear lights are operational, especially the car’s flashing hazard lights.
Often in the winter, the windshield wiper fluid may freeze. Instead of toughing it out until spring, exchange the fluid with one made especially to spray in freezing conditions. Similarly, purchase winter wiper blades to cut through snow and ice instead of using regular ones throughout the year.
Check the spray nozzles of your windshield-washer system. Sometimes, they get blocked by wax or debris. Use a needle or pin to clear blocked nozzles.
Road salt commonly used during winter can damage your car’s paint. Rinsing it off every once in a while can help, but a good wash and coat of fresh wax will go a long way in preventing corrosion and keep your vehicle looking like new.