Winter car care tips
Your car is one of your largest investments and it is a necessity of life, but its depreciation is instantaneous and rapid. That is why it is crucial to take steps to protect your investment during the winter months.
All geographical areas experience some sort of harsh weather. Whether it is Alaska with temperatures dropping into the negative double digits or Texas with their unexpected ice storms. Your car needs special care during the winter months. Winter car care should include:
- Basic Tune up: lets face it, if it does not start, the rest is just fluff. Make sure you have a certified car mechanic (one that you know and trust) evaluate the hoses, belts, spark plugs and wires. Change if needed. Maintain oil changes as recommended by your car manual.
- Antifreeze: Add antifreeze that will protect your lines from freezing.
- Tire tread: Be sure your tires are in good shape, with adequate tread. Remember traction, traction, traction. Most state laws consider tread to be legally worn out at 2/32″ of remaining tread. Easy way to judge this is to take a penny (with Lincoln facing upside down) and stick it in many different areas of the treads and if Lincoln’s head is always covered, then you are okay.
- Brakes: Have that certified mechanic that you know and trust check your brakepads and shoes. You can forget traction, if you can’t stop.
- Windshield wipers and fluids: Visibility in the wintertime is often compromised. Defrost/scrape all your windows completely before driving. Your blades should be changed if they leave streak marks and/or don’t clear window thoroughly. Follow your owners manual for correct size. Although more expensive, the heavy all-season blades are a good bet. Use windshield fluids that are effective in subzero temperatures.
- Fuel de-icers: If temperatures in your area can fall to sub-zero, it is smart to use a fuel de-icer, to prevent the fuel line and /or carburetor from freezing. Keep the fuel take above 1/2 full to further prevent freezing
- Exterior TLC: Prior to the elements beating up your car, give it a thorough washing and 1-2 coats of a good quality polish/wax. This will give your car a fighting chance against the road salt and debris from sanders. Repeat the wash and wax after a storms, to remove accumulated salt and sand. Don’t forget the tires, they would love a coat or two of protection also.
Adequately maintaining your car, will add years of life to your car. Please remember to drive safely, keep your eyes on the road and expect the unexpected. Have a safe winter!
