As Winter Approaches it is important to make sure your vehicle is in a condition where you are traveling as safe as possible. To help better prepare for this season of driving here are some tips and suggestions on winterizing your car:

 

Check Your Antifreeze

Your antifreeze (the juice that goes in your radiator) is an essential part of your car’s winter protection. Your car contains a 50/50 mix of water and antifreeze. Make sure the level is full and the mixture is close to 50/50. Many auto service stations and repair centers will check this mixture free, or you can buy a tester for around $5.

Only fill with premium brand anti-freeze, make sure to check your owners manual for proper anti-freeze type

Inspect Your Tires

Tires are frequently the most neglected vehicle component but are among the most important. Check tire pressure and tread depth before winter sets in. Under- inflated and worn tires will not provide sufficient traction – especially on wet or icy roads.

Replace Your Wipers

Install good windshield wiper blades

Check Your Windshield Fluid

Fill wiper fluid reservoir with de-icing solution

Check the battery

 Icy-cold temperatures can reduce a vehicle’s battery power by up to fifty percent. If the battery is barely turning the engine over now, it is likely to fail during winter. If your vehicle battery is older than three years, have it tested. Also, make sure the posts and connections are free of corrosion.

Inspect Your Spark Plug Wires

Cracked up plug wires affect performance, gas mileage and general reliability

Inspect Your Brakes

Quick visual inspection will give you peace of mind driving in cold harsh conditions

Check Your Engine Oil

Dirty oil makes it harder for the engine to turn over, especially in cold weather, resulting in premature engine wear. Check your owner’s manual for the recommended oil change frequency and replace the oil with the appropriate grade for the seasonal temperatures in your area.

Check Belts and Hoses

Modern materials have made belts and hoses very durable with relatively long lives, but they can deteriorate over time and fail without warning. 

Tune up the motor

Air, Oil and Fuel filters, including new spark plugs, ignition cap, rotor and wires. Ignition system needs to be in top shape to battle the cold.

 

Winter Vehicle Emergency Kit Items

Blanket – wool is best, as it still warms even when wet

Empty Gas Can – in case you run out

Warning light, hazard triangle, or Road Flares -make it easier for someone to find you if things are really bad

Snacks – (durable ones) such as granola bars, jerky or dried fruit

Water – make sure you empty a little out of the tops of bottles in case they freeze

Flashlight (with batteries) – preferably waterproof

First Aid Kit

Jumper Cables or a Portable Battery Booster – cold decreases battery life

Ice Scaper/snowbrush 

Car shovel

Hand Warmers

 

Advanced Auto Clinic is a full service, automobile repair and auto repair maintenance shop serving the Delavan and Lake Geneva area with many years of consistent and friendly service. Click here to see all of the services offered: https://www.aacdelavan.com/automotive-services/