Winter can be a harsh season for your car, and it can be especially stressful if you have a breakdown. Preparing your car for the winter is a proactive choice that you definitely want to make, and it can reduce a great deal of frustration and might even save you money in the process.
Using these five essential tips, you can empower yourself and be prepared for the unexpected!
1. Tire Rotation and Tire Pressure Check
Having your tires rotated is extremely important for the winter season. Worn tires are extremely vulnerable to cold weather and will interfere with the stopping power needed during a snowfall or cold rainy conditions. The tire pressure should also be checked during the tire rotation, as well as throughout the entire winter season. An under-inflated tire can be very hazardous, and at the very least, the tire will underperform and may even wear prematurely.
2. Why a Brake Check is Important?
There are many benefits of making sure that your brakes are in peak operating condition during winter; however, none of them compare to the safety for you, your passengers and others on the road, including pedestrians. When the brake lining wears down, there is a high probability that the metal, which holds the lining in place, will begin to merge with the brake drum or rotor. When this occurs, the stopping power of the brake system is vulnerable, which becomes a safety hazard, especially during winter.
3. Battery Test
Having a battery test prior to the height of the winter season gives you added peace of mind that your battery can sustain a decrease in temperature. The cold weather makes your battery extremely vulnerable. Although all batteries are tested to perform at peak levels during winter, there is always the possibility that a battery has become weakened during normal temperatures and all it takes is one extremely cold day to prevent your engine from starting. The battery should also be cleaned during the test because acid corrosion can interfere with the connection between the battery posts and the battery terminals.
4. Headlight and Taillight Inspection
It is vital to have headlights and taillights operating effectively during any season, but it cannot be overstated that the winter season makes it even more vital. With conditions that can reduce visibility significantly, inspecting your headlights and taillights can ensure you that they're functioning properly. Often times, a wintery mix, such as snow and ice, can reduce driver visibility in ways that make driving extremely difficult.
5. Cooling System Check
Oftentimes, a car will break down during the winter due to a low amount of coolant in the radiator, leaking coolant due to a weak radiator hose, or a radiator fan belt breaks. Even if it is only a small leak, over time, that leak will grow and eventually cause a breakdown. And the only way to know if the radiator fan belt needs replacement is for a technician to visibly inspect it. It's also a good idea to replace the coolant if it hasn't been changed recently.
Interested in learning more about preparing your car for winter? Stop by Miles Chevrolet, reach out to our staff online with an email, or simply give us a call. We understand that your time is valuable, and we're extremely committed to providing the type of service that exceeds your expectations. It's important to us that your winter driving is as safe as possible, and we'll be more than happy to answer any questions you may have. We look forward to speaking with you soon!
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Winter
