To quote the popular TV show and every single blog that has published an article since Game of Thrones has started airing – The Winter is Coming. For car owners, the winter means it is time to do a comprehensive checkup and preparation for the coming season. Today, we will be talking about how to get your car ready for winter and ensure you and your family are safe in it.
Check the Battery
Winter is going to give your battery a run for its money, there is no doubt about that. This is especially pronounced if your car is not garaged. Because of this, you will want to give your battery a checkup before the really cold weather rolls in. The good news is that you will not have to spend a ton of money to do the load-test on the battery. In fact, many car part stores will do the test for free.
Antifreeze is a Must
It may seem silly that we are warning you about checking your antifreeze once the days start getting shorter, but you would be surprised as to how many people forget all about putting antifreeze in their car. This is especially true for people who drive older cars and who haven’t been in for regular car service for some time. When purchasing antifreeze, it is essential that it is compatible with your system and that it will be capable of keeping things running even in the coldest weather.
Upgrade your Survival Kit
Most of us have a survival kit of some kind in our car, both because the law requires it and because we are smart. However, when you feel the winter coming on, it might be time to upgrade it. For instance, you might want to have a whistle and a shovel introduced to your kit, as well as a lighter and a plumber’s candle. Of course, the best advice comes from places like Wisconsin where they know how to take care of their cars in the winter.
Don’t Forget about the Wipers
Once the rains and the snow become a daily thing, you will start seeing your wipers and your windshield as the most important parts of your vehicle. In other words, you will want to make sure your wipers are in great shape and your washer fluid has been topped up. There is nothing more dangerous than not being able to see outside your car.
Check your Engine
Engine is the heart of your car and if there is something wrong with it, the winter will make the problems more noticeable and potentially dangerous. If you have been experiencing problems such as rough idling, hard starts, diminished power or stalling, you definitely need to check your engine performance and other essential systems in your car. These checkups should also involve your filters and hydraulics.
Tires. Tires. Tires
Heading out on road in the winter without checking your tires is gambling with your life. Worn-out and similar sub-par tires may prove to be a death threat and it is definitely something you will want to avoid. You will want to replace your usual tires with winter ones and you will also want to check them regularly once you do. Rotate them regularly and ensure that the pressure is as it should be. If you want to learn more, you can find excellent information here.
