Do you want to avoid any winter-related breakdowns or poor performance? Check out the owner’s guide for your vehicle now.
While preparing your car for winter does not require technical knowledge or time, it can help to prevent minor problems from becoming major issues. The experts at the non-profit National Institute for Automotive Service Excellence ASE say it’s possible to prepare your car for winter. “Cold weather will only make existing problems worse.”
These are some items you can check before autumn turns into winter.
– Get to know your owner’s manual. Follow the manufacturer’s suggested service schedules. No one is more knowledgeable about your car than the company that made it.
Upgrade your motor oil. Upgrade to high-performance synthetic motor oils and make sure you change it frequently. This will help protect your car and improve its performance. Synthetic motor oils are more fluid at low temperatures than mineral-based oils. This makes them easier to start on cold days. Independent tests have shown that some motor oils, such as Royal Purple, can improve fuel economy, reduce emission, and increase horsepower, torque, and many other oils are also more efficient. More information can be found at www.royalpurple.com.
– Check your wheels. Tires that are worn can make it very dangerous to drive on snow, ice and rain. Check tires for uneven wear and tread life. You should also inspect the sidewalls for nicks and cuts.
Check your cooling system. If the coolant has not been changed in a while, it might be time for a refill and flush. You should check the coolant’s level, condition, concentration and frequency on a regular basis. It is recommended to use a 50/50 mixture of antifreeze & water. Also, hoses must be inspected for cracks or leaks.
Ensure you have a functioning battery. Replace your battery if it is past its recommended service life. Any low-level batteries can be topped up with distilled water. Make sure that the battery terminals are clean and tightened so that electricity can reach the starter during cold fall mornings. To prevent corrosion, clean the battery terminals with baking soda and water.
– Keep fuel lines clean. In cold weather, it is important to prevent gas lines freezing. Without fuel, a vehicle cannot run. The full gas tank will prevent moisture from forming and ice from growing. A fuel deicer may be necessary to keep fuel lines from freezing in cold weather. Block heaters are another option, and they are very inexpensive and easy to use.
