Vehicle Maintenance Tips For Winter

Wax and check vehicle lights

As it gets later in the year, the sun will start going down earlier and earlier, meaning you may be driving in the dark more often. To keep winter driving from becoming hazardous, check your vehicle’s lights to make sure you have the brightest possible illumination on the road. Replace any bulbs that have gone out and consider replacing or fixing yellowed or foggy headlights. For an extra bit of visibility, take some wax to a clean headlight. Once the wax is dry, buff it off and you’ll have headlights that are more resistant to being coated in ice.

Make sure your battery is operating properly

A dead battery is never fun, but in the winter months when you’re rushing to get to work and not in the mood to stand on the side of the road in the cold, it’s imperative that your battery is in working order. Cold weather can be hard on a battery, so make sure to get your battery’s cold cranking ability tested and replace it if it’s nearing the end of its life.

Pay attention to leaks 

A big cold weather problem for vehicles is leaks. Most leaks will get worse when the weather turns cold, and old seals, gaskets and hoses start leaking when the temperature drops. If you know your car has a leak, be proactive and get it fixed before the weather turns. If not, small problems could turn into big issues. 

Keep an eye on coolant, washer fluid and gasoline

There are several fluids that keep your car in working order, and in the winter months it becomes even more important that you keep those items full at all times. Coolant, or antifreeze, keeps your car’s engine from freezing. If you keep on top of regular maintenance, it might not be necessary to get your levels checked. But if there is an issue, have a mechanic check the freezing point. The cooling system may need to be flushed and filled with new coolant, as additives in the coolant eventually get used up. 

Washer fluid is another important item you shouldn’t skimp on. Using regular water is a health hazard as well as just not a good idea. Use a washer fluid that has a freezing point compatible with the typical winter weather in your area and keep it filled. 

Keeping a full tank of gas can seem like a nuisance, but a full tank means you’re less likely to freeze if you get stuck and have to leave the engine running for an extended period of time. 

Switch to winter tires

Switching to winter tires may not be necessary depending on where you live, but if the temperature regularly falls below 45 degrees, you may want to consider it. That’s because winter tires are made to maintain traction when you’re driving on cold pavement, as opposed to regular tires which may not be able to handle stops and turns like winter tires can. If you don’t switch to winter tires, make sure your current tires have enough tread so you’re not sliding around on snow and ice.

Check your tire pressure

Tire pressure is critical during big changes in temperature like the winter months can bring. When air temperature drops, so can tire pressure, and low tire pressure means you’re more likely to get in an accident. Check your tire pressure and if any are low, go ahead and get them filled. 

Replace your wiper blades

Until your windshield is foggy or frosted over, or you’re driving down the highway when it’s raining, you may not pay much attention to your wiper blades. But streaks or missed spots on the glass can signal that they need to be replaced. Especially during winter months when weather can be hazardous, it’s important that you keep on top of replacing wiper blades so you have the best visibility on the road. 

Schedule regular maintenance

If you regularly take your car in for service, you should be in good shape for winter already. Routine maintenance and inspections can find and fix problems before they become an issue on the road. If you’re looking for a Cumming auto mechanic to help get your car winter-ready, schedule a service with Poston Motor Company. Our trained and certified technicians are ready to assist you and ensure you’re never left out in the cold. Call today! 678-455-5246