The sunny days of summer are over and I am making a list of things to do to winterize my home. And it's also time for all of us to think about preparing our vehicles for the winter months.
Winter is coming. It is time to go over your car. Here is a list to help you get things checked out.1. Check your antifreeze, not only to be sure the temperature is good but for the acidity of the coolant. Acid will cause premature failure in the cooling system to components like the radiator or the water pump.
2. Change your oil. Manufacturers are getting very specific about the type and weight oil your car needs. A good repair shop knows which is the proper oil for your car. Many “quickie oil” places use the same oil for all cars to save on their expenses.
3. Tire pressure is always a critical factor. New cars have tire pressure monitors but most cars do not. It is important that you read the inflation specifications that are listed on the driver’s doorjamb and inflate your tires to those specs. Many times the specs are different for the front and back tires.
4. Wipers are critical in the winter with snow and ice on the roads and sand and mud being thrown up at your windshield. You must have good wipers and it is a good idea to keep an extra pair in the car, even if you are unsure or cannot install them yourself. When you have an extra pair of wipers that will fit your car then you can find someone to install them for you. However if you need a new wiper immediately you may not be able to find one.
5. Washer fluid goes hand and hand with the wipers. In winter when the windshield is always getting road dirt and sand on it, you need to keep the washer fluid full. Here at Steve’s Auto Service we always fill your washer fluid with every oil change, for free!
6. Tune up: When was the last time you had your car tuned up? Many new cars have maintenance schedules that space out services over ridiculously long intervals. This can result in your fuel filter, air filter, and spark plugs not being replaced at the proper time. However if you take care if these maintenance items before it is too late you will avoid problems, such as spark plugs that will not come out of the engine. This will add tremendous expense to a simple job. Also you will improve your gas mileage and your car will not only run better but will last longer too.
7. Tires: Snow tires are the best but most people now use all season tires. Many cars are all-wheel drive. All-wheel drive is good for traction but not for stopping. So you must be certain that your tires have good tread on them, whether they are snow tires or all season tires. It is said that a minimum tread depth is to the top of George’s heads on a quarter. But this is not really enough to start a season of snow and ice. I would say at least 3/8 of an inch across the entire tread of the tire is safe.
Everyone please have a happy and safe Thanksgiving. Hopefully we will see you for your winter car maintenance. Steve’s Auto Service: Helping you to avoid breakdowns on the way to grandma’s house on Thanksgiving day!
