Winter Maintenance – Cold weather, freezing sleet, snow, and icy conditions are challenges for the most prepared drivers. Your car also needs to be prepared. Decreased visibility because of ice on the windows can cause accidents. Dead batteries can put you in danger. Winter maintenance should not be overlooked; it’s something to put on your calendar. You may not know the nitty-gritty for your vehicle, but you can take steps on your today.
A Short Winter Maintenance List to do at Home
Start by keeping a snowbrush with a long handle and scraper in your car to keep your windshield and windows clear. Your defroster should keep it clear after that, but you can save a cloth in the car to wipe the insides of the windows if needed. You should also include checking to make sure the heater is working correctly. Without the heater, the defroster cannot keep the windshield clear of frost.
Winter driving conditions mean dirty water and salt being tossed up on your windows- you can go through a lot of windshield wiper fluid. Check the reservoir often and top it off, also have an extra gallon with the other winter emergency supplies in the back of your car.
Windshield wiper blades also need to be added to your winter maintenance list. Wiper blades lose effectiveness after six months of 
use. If they leave streaks on the windshield or large areas that don’t get cleaned, it is probably time to buy some new blades and have them installed. Winter maintenance must include the car battery. Check your battery in the fall before cold weather hits. At 0° F the battery works only half as well that it does at 80° F. The cold can drain the battery, so it is essential to make sure the battery is fully charged. You can check to be sure all the lights are working correctly. Have someone walk around the car while you turn on the blinkers and press on the brake to be sure. Your winter maintenance program should include cleaning the exterior cameras at the same time you check the lights.
An essential part of winter maintenance for your vehicle is checking the tire tread. All season tires are acceptable for some cars, but the right tires for your area’s winter driving conditions can give you peace of mind.
Your Favorite Mechanic has a Winter Maintenance Plan
It’s easy to say you will get through a winter maintenance checklist, making sure your car is ready for winter, but some somethings might be easier to turn over to a qualified mechanic.
In Conclusion
Your favorite mechanic will be able to help you get new wiper blades and new tires if they are needed. They can also replace dirty filters in your car systems for fuel and air. The fuel injectors may need to be replaced. Also includes changing oil, checking antifreeze, possibly flushing the radiator, and topping off liquids.
If you are ready to talk to your mechanic about winter maintenance on your vehicle, look no further than the friendly people at Twisted Wrench Auto. Call today at Brice at 801.631.6980. Set an appointment for an oil change, tune-up, or whatever your car might need. Check with State Farm!
Recent Comments