Winter Car Maintenance Tips
When it comes to your vehicle, you can never have too many car maintenance tips. When the weather starts to get colder, you’ll need to check a few things in your car to make sure it’s in good condition. You should check the coolant level, transmission fluid, brake fluid and windshield wiper fluid. You should also change your engine oil. Certain types of oil don’t perform well in cold weather, so you should buy one made specifically for winter use. You should also check your fluid levels regularly, as vehicles with the correct levels of fluids run better and have less potential for problems on the road. Read on for a list of car maintenance tips for winter.
Check Fluid Levels
It is important to check your car’s fluid levels when driving in winter. Several parts of your car are dependent on fluids to function correctly. Transmission fluid serves as a coolant, while power steering and windshield wiper fluid lubricate various inner parts. Low levels of these fluids can significantly limit your car’s efficiency. Moreover, these fluids are vital for visibility in poor weather.
Antifreeze is another essential fluid that you should check, particularly in cold weather. When the temperature drops, it can cause the antifreeze to lose its effectiveness. If the antifreeze level in your car is low, you should replace it.
Check Tire Pressure
Checking tire pressure is an important maintenance task for your vehicle that often gets overlooked, especially in winter. This is possibly the most important of the car maintenance tips you should practice all year long. Tire inflation levels change rapidly and can affect your vehicle’s handling and control on slick roads. In order to ensure safe driving in winter, make sure to check tire pressure before winter begins and after the first cold snap. There are a number of tools and equipment that can help you monitor your tire pressure, but we can help you in our Tire Center as well.
Tire pressure gauges are easy to use and have numbered sticks or digital screens. To read the pressure, simply place the gauge onto the valve stem of a tire. If the number on the gauge is higher than the recommended PSI, push down on the valve to release air. If it is lower than recommended, use an air compressor to add air.
Check Coolant
One of the most important car maintenance tips for winter is to check the coolant level. Your car’s cooling system keeps your engine from overheating and freezing during the cold months, which is essential to your safety on the road. Changing the coolant level is a relatively simple task. Follow your car’s owner’s manual to make sure that the coolant level matches the recommended ratio.
Check Battery
It’s important to check your battery when driving in winter, because your car uses more power during the cold season. Your car’s air conditioning system and windshield heater are big consumers of power, and they can take a heavy toll on your battery. When your battery is low, it will be difficult to start your car or keep it going.
Check Windows
When driving in winter, make sure that your windows are clear and free of ice. This will help you maintain visibility and be aware of slippery spots. Be especially careful when driving on bridges and in areas that are shaded, as ice can stick to them for a longer time.
Winter Car Maintenance Tips with Beetlesmith’s Valley Auto Service
Many people are comfortable doing their own cold weather inspections, but many people would also prefer a professional to give the vehicle a good inspection. No matter which you prefer, just be sure that the person is as thorough as our qualified technicians who have been caring for vehicles in the Renton Valley since 1969.
For any car maintenance tips or to schedule a service, consult our experts. Set an appointment by calling (425) 251-8787 or visiting our appointment request page.
