If you live in an area where winter weather happens, you are going to want to think about getting your car winter weather ready. Paul Chevrolet has a few small tidbits for you so that you can make sure that you have everything set ahead of time. There are truly just simple things that you can do to make sure that your car is working in top notch order and is ready to go.
Many of us travel when winter weather is upon us, so there is no avoiding being out in the snow and ice. Whether you have to get to work when the conditions are like this or you are just going to be visiting family, you need to make sure that you follow these tips. They can make all the difference!
You will want to first get an oil change. If you are approaching time for an oil-change, now is the time to do it. Also if it is time to get a full-service for your vehicle approaching a 30,000 mile marker, make sure that an oil change is included! Oil becomes thicker when the weather turns colder. If it becomes too thick than it won’t be able to do it’s job correctly. Your owner manual or a service center should be able to tell you what kind of oil to get for colder weather for your specific vehicle.
Replacing those windshield wipers should also be on the list. You want to be able to see when you drive and so these are so important to make sure they are in good working order. Your wipers are normally good for about a year, so this time of year if you changed them last year make sure to do it again. You will also want to fill up that windshield washer fluid. You won’t be able to clear anything with plain water in the colder weather. It’s going to freeze! You will also want to check to make sure that your defroster is working to help keep the windshield clear.
Checking your battery for corrosion is also a great thing to do this time of year. You also want to make sure that it has all the water that it needs. Think of the last time you replaced your battery. Has it been about 3 years? You will need to have it tested to make sure it can hold a proper charge.
Making sure all your belts and hoses are in good working order can save some hassle later. Check them all for any signs of wear and tear. Colder weather can make belts work harder than normal and so they need to be in tip top shape.
Your tire pressure should also be checked. They should be properly inflated so that you can have the traction that you need while driving. Colder weather can make the air pressure drop so make sure to double check that. If your area gets lots of snow conditions, you may want to think about switching over to snow tires as well.
If your vehicle has a four-wheel drive system, now is the time to make sure that it is working properly. Make sure that you can engage it and also disengage it with no problem.
These simple tips on making sure that your car is winter weather ready will save you a lot of headache down the line. Making sure everything is in good working order and is replaced if need be will make driving in that snow and ice so much easier.
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