5 Car Care Tips for a Tough Winter

Posted October 31, 2022

The colder and snowier the locale in which you live, the more you need to ensure your vehicle is ready for cold wintery weather. According to Future Market Insights, the global automotive repair and maintenance industry is predicted to grow at a double-digit compound annual rate between 2015 and 2025. With the industry growing, it’s clear that car maintenance services are only getting more popular. Some basic car maintenance can help to ensure your vehicle is ready for the colder months. The following five car care tips will help you do just that.

1. Check the Battery and Lights

The summertime heat causes batteries to discharge their stored energy more rapidly. When winter comes around, the battery might be too weak to take a full charge. The first cold weather due to the coming winter tends to kill those batteries. You should have a mechanic inspect your battery to make sure it is taking a full charge and replace it if it’s not. While you are at it, you should have the mechanic check your lights and replace any burned-out bulbs.

2. Test the Coolant and Check the Hoses

Coolant also doubles as antifreeze, and winter car maintenance requires checking and replacing the coolant as needed. Flushing and filling the coolant will help to protect the engine block against freezing or cracking during extremely cold weather. Your mechanic also should inspect the hoses and replace any that are brittle due to dry rot.

3. Inspect Belts, Heater Core, and Thermostat

Mechanics also should inspect the serpentine belt, alternator belt, and fan for signs of cracking or excessive wear and tear. Freezing temperatures can make belts more brittle. Replacing a worn belt will prevent it from breaking. Your mechanic also should ensure the heater core is working and delivering hot air to keep the windshield clear of ice and snow and the passenger cabin warm. Installing a hotter thermostat can help to deliver more warmth.

4. Check Wiper Blades and Washer Fluid

The wiper blades and washer fluid are very important during cold and snowy travel. Winter car maintenance always includes replacing worn wiper blades and topping off the washer fluid reservoir with fluid that contains deicer. Your mechanic also can make sure the fluid nozzles are working properly to ensure they deliver washer fluid correctly.

5. Mount, Balance, and Rotate Snow Tires

Winter travel generally is the worst for tire traction. Snow, slush, and ice greatly challenge your tires. Responsible wintertime car maintenance includes inspecting the tires, followed by a balance and rotation for the best traction. If you live in a snowy area, mounting snow tires will help to maintain traction.

Winter can be difficult on your car. Ease the pain this winter and have your car services beforehand. If you’re looking to prepare your car for winter, call us at D’s Auto & Truck Repair today!

Categories: Car Repair

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