How Do I Get My Car Ready for Winter?
Don't Get Stuck Out in the Cold!
As the weather cools down and winter approaches, it's important to think about proper vehicle maintenance throughout the season. Taking the steps ahead of time can prevent costly repairs while ensuring safe and reliable performance in the frigid winter temperatures. The trusted experts at Mad Hatter Auto Repair, with locations in Omaha, NE and Council Bluffs, IA, will provide some simple steps to ensure your vehicle is ready for the winter!
Battery Check
Make sure to inspect the status of your battery to ensure it is charged adequately. In freezing temperatures the battery might lose 20 - 50% of its power, which could leave you stranded. Be sure to check the battery charge and connections while keeping an eye on corrosion on the terminals. If your battery is older than 3 years, then it may be time to get it checked to make sure it is good to go for the winter.
Check Fluid Levels
In wintery weather conditions your car's liquids may become more viscous resulting in decreased efficiency. Ensure your vehicle's fluids such as coolant, oil, brake fluid and windshield washer fluid are filled to the appropriate levels. Make sure you have a mix of antifreeze and water in your coolant to avoid freezing issues. Additionally, make sure to use a windshield washer fluid designed for winter conditions to prevent freezing and assist in clearing ice and snow from your windshield. Having at least a half full tank of gas is recommended to avoid running out of gas during traffic or unexpected delays and to prevent moisture from freezing in the fuel lines.
Maintain Proper Tire Pressure
Ensure tires are properly inflated. Cold temperatures can lead to decreased pressure levels. When your tires are under inflated it can affect how well your car handles and even decrease your fuel efficiency. Make sure to also inspect the tread depth to guarantee they provide traction on roads that may be snow covered. If you're in a region that often deals with snow and ice conditions it's a great idea to consider switching over to winter tires for better grip.
Make Sure Water Heater is Functioning Properly
It's a great idea to check if your car's heater and defroster are working well before hitting the road in colder weather to avoid any unexpected issues. If you happen to spot any problems with the heating system it's best to get it checked out by a mechanic just to be safe.. Having a functioning defroster is crucial for being able to see clearly during those frosty mornings when visibility can be a challenge.
Inspect the Wiper Blades
Ensure they are in good condition. Over time wiper blades can wear out. The presence of snow and ice can make the situation even worse. It's advisable to swap out poor wiper blades upon the arrival of winter weather conditions to ensure optimal performance.
Light 'Em Up!
During the winter season when days are shorter and nights are longer you might find yourself driving in darkness more often. It's essential to make sure that all your vehicle lights are functioning. Tail Lights, brake lights and turn signals should all be checked regularly for any malfunctions or burnt out bulbs so that you can have clear visibility and others can see you while driving.
Be Prepared
Make sure to have an emergency kit in your car during winter as the weather can be quite unpredictable despite preparation. Ensure to have a blanket, flashlight, some spare batteries and an emergency medical kit. Keep some non-perishable snacks, some water and perhaps a compact shovel, sand or kitty litter in case you find yourself stuck or losing traction.
Rely on Mad Hatter Auto Repair for Winter Preparedness
Keep yourself and your loved ones safe on the wintery roads this season and as always, reach out to us with any questions you may have regarding your winter weather car prep. Our $120 winter inspection special is a great investment to assess where your car stands before the snow and ice start flying! In Omaha call (402) 330-2286 and in Council Bluffs call (712) 322-7500.