How To Prepare Your Car For Winter
Posted on: 14 January 2016
Many people who live in cold climates know that they must prepare their home for the winter. But did you know you should also prepare your car for below freezing temperatures? Here is a guide on how to prepare your car for winter:
1. Get new tires
A good set of tires is essential for your car to brake when the roads get slick. Even if you don't need winter tires, check the tread on your tires. Bald tires or low tread will have your car skidding all over the road. To check your tread, stick a penny in the grooves. If you can see Lincoln's entire head, you need new tires. If your area gets a lot of snow and ice, consider getting winter or all-season tires. These tires will give your car better traction.
2. Schedule a brake service
Brakes are one of the most important safety components of your car, especially in the winter. You should get your brakes serviced before bad weather hits. Having good brakes will help you stop in time when the roads are slippery. Also, when road conditions are poor, it can be hard to judge whether your brakes are working properly. Get your brakes serviced now to avoid a slippery situation when the roads thaw in the spring.
3. Prioritize visibility
What helps you see most when you're driving through snow? Get new wiper blades that are designed for snow and ice. Ideal wipers hug your windshield without leaving streaks. Winter is also a good time to change your wiper blades since salt and ice cause wear and tear. You should also have the lights checked. If your headlights seem dim or don't give you enough distance, get them replaced.
4. Check your battery and replace your spark plugs
The last thing you want when you leave for work on a freezing cold morning is a dead battery. Old batteries lose charge faster in below freezing temperatures. Over time, your battery will stop charging completely and die. If your battery is approaching it's fourth birthday, you should replace it before trouble starts. Your spark plugs should also be replaced in time for winter. Your spark plugs start your engine, and they are just as sensitive to cold weather as your battery.
5. Check the four-wheel drive
If you have a four-wheel drive vehicle, you need to check the system to make sure it's operating correctly. It's likely been months since you used it, and it's important for giving your car traction in snow. Here's how to check your four-wheel drive:
- Engage four-wheel drive.
- Shift into drive or reverse and let your car roll. A properly working system is silent.
- Accelerate while monitoring your RPM. Your RPM should go up quickly.
By preparing your car for winter you will be safe and your car will handle the harsh weather.
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