Winter Vehicle Maintenance Tips
Since winter is here, it is important to take extra precautions to maintain your vehicle. Drivers don’t want to be stranded by a dead battery or an accident due to an unclear windshield. Fortunately, with simple preventive steps, drivers can be safer on the roads this winter. Keep reading to review vehicle maintenance tips to keep vehicles running throughout the cold season.
Battery Life Matters
Many drivers don’t realize the effect cold weather has on their vehicle’s battery. However, when the temperature is below freezing, battery power is severely reduced, and it’s harder to start your vehicle. This means that if your battery is already drained, you may be unable to start your car this winter. It is essential to visit an auto repair facility before winter arrives to test your battery. Testing determines your battery’s health and your dealership will advise you if it is time to have it replaced.
Check Your Wiper Blades
A key component that many drivers overlook are wiper blades – they aren’t noticed until they are needed! Before winter arrives, check the condition of your wiper blades. This helps drivers avoid visibility issues if unexpected precipitation such as ice or snow happens.
If the wiper blades are worn or cracked, replace them as soon as possible. Many drivers don’t realize that wiper blades have an average life expectancy of six months. In order to ensure safe driving, drivers should consider replacing wiper blades if they are over six months old.
Keep Your Windows Clean
When winter arrives, clean your windows each time you get on the road. If the visibility through your windows is poor, the risk of causing or being involved in an accident increases. If you park outside, make sure that you remove ice from your windshield and windows. Thoroughly clean your windshield before driving if it is covered with residue from the previous day. Drivers are more likely to use windshield washer in the winter, so it’s important to keep the reservoir filled at all times.
Don’t Let Oil Slow You Down
Cold weather can cause a vehicle’s oil to thicken and reduces its ability to circulate properly throughout your engine. To ensure that your car can operate as efficiently as possible as temperatures drop, consider having your oil changed before winter arrives as preventative maintenance. Fresh oil can help keep things running smoothly all winter long while also improving your car’s performance and fuel efficiency.
When getting your oil changed, make sure that your dealership uses an oil formulated for winter use, as this will ensure good oil flow at low temperatures.
Consider Replacing Your Tires
The worst time to discover that tires are worn out is when the roads are slick from rain or snow, and vehicle traction is non-existent. Since winter is approaching, get your tires inspected. If they are cracked, damaged, or the tread is low, it’s time to replace them. Getting new tires now ensures that you have proper traction on the road when winter arrives. Depending on where you live, you may want to consider swapping out your regular tires for snow tires to provide extra traction in harsh weather conditions.
Cover Yourself with a Vehicle Service Contract
Being left without a vehicle anytime is a drag, but during the winter it can be even worse. A vehicle service contract helps cover mechanical repairs after your car’s factory warranty expires. A vehicle service contract is like health insurance for your car; covering mechanical repairs that occur from issues outside of normal wear and tear. Drivers who want to extend the life of their vehicle for as long as possible can make an excellent choice by selecting a vehicle service contract.
Being Cautious this Winter
Properly maintaining your vehicle this winter will keep you safe on the road as temperatures drop. Feel free to contact us for additional vehicle maintenance tips to keep you safe this winter.
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Easy Ways to Retain Vehicle Value
Dealership, Parts and Service, SalesIt’s said that vehicle value is lost when driving off the lot for the first time. No matter when a vehicle was purchased, there are ways to care for and maintain the vehicle to retain its value. The key to maintaining vehicle value is to provide consistent care and attention to detail. This ensures that the vehicle continues to appeal to future buyers and provides the best possible return on investment.