Winter maintenance is the best care you can give to your car. According to auto experts, the winter season puts stress on your car and the snow and ice can wreak havoc on both the interior and exterior of the car. Preventive winter maintenance can keep your car in good health even in the harshest conditions that lay ahead. Here are some winter maintenance tips that can be useful to you.
Heating System
No one likes to drive a car in the freezing winter and you need a working heating system for that warm and comfortable feeling when driving in the winter. You need to check the blower fan and air vents, as well as the radiator for the recommended coolant level which is necessary to keep the interior warm.
Tires
Whether or not to swap tires is a big question for car owners. According to tire experts, all-season tires are not safe for areas which have low temperatures and continual snowfall. If you are living in a region where the temperature drops below freezing, you need to swap all-season tires with winter tires. All-season tires tread rubber hardens at colder temperatures and cannot provide traction. This can lead to “at fault” accidents.
Air Pressure in Tires
No matter what tires you choose for your car, make sure they have the recommended air pressure. As the temperature plummets, the air pressure in the tires also decreases. Driving on underinflated tires reduces the service life of tires and you may need early replacements. According to tire experts, you need to maintain a 3-5 psi higher air pressure than recommended in winter. You can find the recommended air pressure in tires for the winter season in the car owner’s manual.
Check Motor Oil
Motor oil is the lifeblood of your car. Many car manufacturers recommend oil with lower viscosity during winter. If you live in a region where the winter is severe, you need to change your engine oil for the season. Engine oil thickens at a colder temperature and becomes thinner when the engine is running. Using lower viscosity oil is recommended as it will flow more freely even at colder temperatures and you will not face starting problems.
Check Wiper Blades
Your windshield is an important safety feature that prevents snow, ice and other elements from entering the car’s cabin. Visibility is an important factor while driving and you need to ensure that the windshield wipers are ready for winter. Make sure the wiper blades are wiping the windshield properly. Look for any signs that indicate it’s time to get new wiper blades. For example, check for any deterioration, cracks, fissures or signs of damage in the wiper blades.
Check Windshield Washer Fluid
In the winter season, you will feel the need to clean the windshield more often for clear vision. Hence, you need to use the washer fluid specifically designed for colder temperatures.
Preparing your car to face the toughest climate will reduce unexpected breakdowns and your car will be in great condition to support your journey even in the harshest weather. If you have not done preventive winter maintenance, get it done soon before the winter season reaches its peak.
