What Is Winterizing Your Car?

The winter holiday season is officially upon us, which means that countless Americans will be loading up their cars and hitting the open road for family visits and vacations. Weather and road conditions can be exceptionally challenging during this season, however. For many vehicles, the colder weather can cause certain functions to lose their effectiveness. Without proper preparations, winter road trips can quickly result in delays or even become dangerous.

Winterizing your car in advance of a winter road trip can help you avoid potentially dangerous circumstances and ensure that you reach your holiday destination safely and on time. Working with a qualified mechanic in New Palestine, IN is the best way to ensure that your car is completely and totally ready for the rigors of winter driving.

Here are just some of the steps that you can take to ensure that your car is properly winterized and ready for seasonal travel:

• Check the battery: When the weather is cold, it can adversely affect battery performance. In fact, if the temperature drops too low, your battery may not have the energy necessary to start your engine. Before you embark on a winter road trip, consider testing the battery and examining it for any signs of corrosion. It’s not a bad idea to travel with a spare on hand.
• Have the brakes examined: If the roads are icy, it may be challenging for you to stop effectively. Additionally, brakes may accumulate moisture during adverse weather conditions. If your brake pads and rotors have extensive wear or damage, it’s advisable to replace them as soon as possible. Before you begin driving in winter weather conditions, consider investing in new brakes pads and rotors.
• Change the oil: You should always ensure that your vehicle has enough oil before you embark on any kind of road trip. Because oil is less effective in extremely cold conditions, you may need to adjust the viscosity of the oil that you’re putting into your engine in certain temperatures.
• Pack emergency supplies: Even if you’re well prepared, the worst still may occur. If you find yourself stranded in your car, you may be stuck for hours without heat. Before you begin driving, invest in emergency supplies, like blankets, fresh water and dry, packaged foods to keep in your car.
• Consider new tires: Snow tires can help you navigate the most challenging road conditions. If you’re not ready to invest in snow tires for your vehicle, be sure to check the tread level and tire pressure of your current set. Under- or over-inflated tires can reduce the amount of control you have on the road.

Since 1982, Auto Air and Heating, Inc. has been a trusted mechanic in New Palestine, IN. We are a one-stop shop for all of your automotive needs. We’re proud to provide each and every one of our clients with high-quality services and sound automotive advice. To learn more about the ways that we can help you make the most of your vehicle, reach out to one of our friendly, knowledgeable representatives today.

Categorised in: Mechanic

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