It’s Time to Get Your Vehicle Ready for Winter!

The calendar may say it’s still summer, but winter will be here before we know it! On top of doing small things like bringing your heavy coats out from the back of the closet, you’ll need to get your car ready for winter in New Palestine, IN. Continue reading to learn what needs to be done to ensure your car is ready to handle the upcoming season:

• Get an oil change: Your car should obviously get an oil change every few thousand miles, and the changing of the seasons is often a good time to get this done. Different types of motor oils perform better at certain temperatures. Oils designed for winter months will continue to flow even when the temperature is below freezing outside. Your owner’s manual should tell you which type of oil is best for your engine in the winter.
• Top off your antifreeze: Going along with fluids, you should make sure that you have the right antifreeze-to-water ratio. It’s best to have a 50/50 mixture of antifreeze and water to ensure that it doesn’t freeze on cold nights. You can perform this test yourself with an inexpensive antifreeze tester. If the mixture is off, you’ll need to have your radiator flushed and refilled.
• Change your wipers: Visibility is key, especially when you’re driving during a snowstorm. Make sure that your windshield wipers are up to snuff and can properly clear off your windshield. You should also refill the fluid reservoir with wiper fluid that won’t freeze on cold days.
• Check your battery: If your battery is over three years old, we recommend going to an auto shop and having it tested to ensure that it can still hold a proper charge. Your mechanic can also clean off any corrosion from the battery’s posts and connections.
• Examine belts and hoses: Over time, the belts and hoses under your hood can start to fray and fail. Cold winter temperatures only help to speed up this aging process. Since you probably don’t know what you’re looking at when you pop the hood, we recommend going to a mechanic for an inspection. He can replace any belts or hoses that are on their last leg.
• Check your tire pressure: Tire pressure is important regardless of the season, but it really matters in the winter when the roads are snowy and icy. Under-inflated tires provide less traction, so be sure they’re always at the proper level before you head out.
• Switch to snow tires: Are you still driving around on summer tires? If so, it may be time to put some snow tires on your car. Snow tires perform better throughout the winter, ensuring your safety while you’re out and about. All-season tires won’t cut it, either. Make the switch to snow tires or risk getting in an auto accident this winter.

Do you need a hand in preparing your car for winter? Then bring your car to the professionals at Auto Air & Heating, Inc. From performing an oil change to examining your belts and hoses, we’re number one when it comes to car winterization in New Palestine, IN.

Categorised in: General Maintenance

This post was written by Writer