Winter will be arriving later this month.
There are a few ways drivers can get their vehicle ready for it.
We recommend having a mechanic look over various components to avoid possible problems in the future.
Here are some parts that should be checked:
- Heat and defroster
- Belts
- Car battery
- Windshield wiper blades
- Fluid levels
- Tire pressure
- Headlights
More information about these parts can be found below.
How’s your heat?
When I first get in my car on a chilly day, my first thought is to turn on the heat. But a lot of us don’t actually think about whether the heat controls and defroster are actually working.
Now is a good time to check them. The last thing you want is to find out something is wrong when it’s freezing outside.
You should make sure your belts and battery are in good working order, as well. Overtime, belts can break, fray or get caught around other components. Drastic changes in temperatures – both in the winter and summer – can kill a weak car battery.
Seeing that we do experience frost and occasionally see some snowy days, we also recommend taking a look at and replacing the windshield wiper blades.
Fluid levels for winter preparation
Windshield washer fluid is mainly used in the summer, but it’s also needed to get frost off your windshield in the winter.
Some people pre-dilute their windshield washer fluid when it’s warmer and don’t give it another thought. When the temperature drops, the tank can freeze and crack, causing the windshield washer fluid to leak out.
Taking a look at your basic fluid levels, such as coolant, is another way you can get ready for winter.
Since we’re not using the heat during the rest of the year, we don’t really consider if the coolant is low. Coolant plays an important role in temperature control, so it’s a good idea to have someone check it out.
Antifreeze is another fluid that needs to be looked at. Make sure that it is at a safe level and it has a good protection level for temperature.
Tire pressure check
During this time of year, it’s also important to watch the tire pressure. When the temperature in the tire decreases, so does the PSI.
Many will notice that their tires are lower and automatically think that all of them are flat. If all tires look low, it’s probably because of the temperature.
If one tire is lower than the others, you may want to have it checked, because it could mean there’s a leak.
Taking steps to ensure that your vehicle is ready to tackle winter weather could extend its lifespan and can help keep you and your family safe.
If you have any questions about winter preparation, give us a call at (703) 670-8005 or visit us at 2603 Hanco Center Drive in Woodbridge.
Steve’s Auto Repair & Tire is an authorized Goodyear tire dealer located in Woodbridge, Virginia. Automotive repair services are performed on all makes and models, including BMW and Mercedes. Services include oil changes, brakes, alignments, inspections, and computer engine diagnostics.