Some people do not realize that their vehicles need some extra protection during the winter until it is too late. A few simple maintenance items are all it takes to help your vehicle perform its best this winter, and you’ll stay warmer, too.
“Motorists in most of this country face harsh weather conditions for at least part of the winter,” said Rich White, executive director, Car Care Council.
“The thought of a breakdown, an engine not starting or otherwise being stranded is stressful as it is, but those things happening in freezing winter weather adds another level of threat. An investment of an hour or so to have your vehicle checked is all it takes to have peace of mind and help avoid the cost and stress of a breakdown during harsh weather.”
Following are car care tips:
- Battery – Cold temperatures will reduce a vehicle’s battery power so it is important to keep the connections clean, tight and corrosion-free. Unfortunately, batteries do not always give warning signs before they fail completely. If your vehicle’s battery is more than three years old, it is wise to replace it. When choosing a replacement, make sure the new one has adequate capacity for your exact make and model.
- Antifreeze – While the owner’s manual will have usage specifications for antifreeze, the mixture of antifreeze and water inside the radiator is typically 50%:50%. When properly mixed, antifreeze and water provide excellent boiling, freezing and anticorrosive properties. As a reminder, do not add 100% antifreeze — sinks full-strength antifreeze actually has a higher freezing temperature than an antifreeze/water combination. Coolant should be flushed and refilled at least every two years in most vehicles.
- Oil – The Car Care Council recommends changing to low-viscosity oil in winter, as it will flow more easily between moving parts when cold. Drivers in sub-zero driving temperatures should drop their oil weight from 10-W30 to 5-W30 since thickened oil can make it hard to start the car.
Some other tips:
- Keep the fuel tank at least half full, decreasing the chances of moisture forming in fuel lines and possibly freezing.
- Tire pressure should also be checked, as tires will lose pressure when temperatures drop. Consider special tires if snow and ice are a problem in your area.
- If you are due for a tune-up, have it done before winter sets in. Winter magnifies existing problems such as pings, hard starts, sluggish performance or rough idling.
- Have the exhaust system checked for carbon monoxide leaks, which can be especially dangerous during cold weather driving when windows are closed.
- It is might be good to allow your car a little more time to warm up when temperatures are below freezing to let the oil in the engine and transmission circulate and get warm. Advice here is split. Other technicians say it is better to drive away after starting since this brings vehicle up to operating temperatures sooner. Check your owner’s manual for the factory recommendation.
- If you live in a place with especially harsh winter conditions, consider using cold weather washer fluid and special winter windshield blades.