When extreme cold, icy roads, and heavy snowfall come with winter, the best-prepared driver is one able to better navigate the road and keep their vehicle in top-notch condition. Usually, autumn is the best time to get your car ready for driving in the wintertime. Below you will find a list of suggestions on how to keep your car safe and in decent working condition for a season filled with ice and snow:
Car Preparation
Antifreeze: Checking coolant levels are suggested, as well as the condition of belts or hoses, which should not appear brittle or soft.
Battery: Batteries should be tested for weakness and proven to work at proper operating levels. The battery terminals should be clean and in good working condition. Baking soda and water paste helps to clean corroded posts. The cables should also be secure.
Brakes: Make sure brake fluid is at proper levels and that rotors are in good condition. Routine inspections should check brake pads for wear.
Door Parts: It is suggested to lubricate the moving parts associated with car doors to make sure they do not become frozen in freezing temperatures. This will also ensure proper operation. Commercial de-icers also help alleviate frozen door locks. A common mistake is to use hot water to solve frozen locks, as it actually worsens the problem by creating additional freezing.
Engine: When the city you live in creates a great amount of freezing temperatures, you may want to purchase an engine block heater, which helps cars start better in the morning, as well as decreases the damage caused by cold engine starts.
Exhaust: The exhaust system should be leak-free with no holes.
Heater & Defroster: To ensure a warm and safe ride, the heater and defroster should be in good working order.
Lights: Brake lights, headlights, and reverse lights should be in good working order.
Proper Lubrication: When following the owner's manual, there are certain things that require lubrication throughout the year. For starters, the steering linkage is something to consider for winter driving.
Tires: In regards to the tires, drivers should check air pressure for proper inflation and inspect the tread for wear. You should also make sure tires are suitable for the driving conditions you aim to enter, such as using chains in regions with deep snow.
Transmission: The transmission fluid should be at proper level, while the transmission filter should be checked and changed if needed.
Tune-Up: Oil filters and air filters should be checked and changed when necessary. Fuel filters should be free of clogs and leaks.
Windshield Wipers and Fluid: Cracked or worn windshield wipers should be replaced. As a rule of thumb, wipers should be revamped every six months. Wiper fluid should be restored with an antifreeze solution especially designed for windshields.
