The winter may be full of holiday cheer, but it can also bring doom and gloom for your vehicle. If you car is not properly maintained then one winter is all it takes to expose any issues with your car. We compiled a short maintenance checklist to make sure your vehicle is properly prepped to the cold season.
Test your battery
Cold weather and your car’s battery don’t get along. In the cold winter temperatures, your car battery can lose 35% to 60% of it’s strength. If your battery is already old and struggling to hold onto a charge, one harsh winter is all it takes for it to stop functioning. It is important to get your battery checked before the winter season begins to avoid running into issues mid-winter. If you do need a new battery, get it replaced sooner than later. You’ll thank yourself when you have working seat warmers and aren’t stuck on the side of the road in freezing temperatures.
Cover up
Winter brings all sorts of inclement weather: - snow, sleet, hail, and more. If your car is stored outdoors during these conditions then it can face costly damages. Snow and ice can scratch and damage your car’s finish, even when trying to clean it off of your vehicle. A weatherproof car cover will protect your car from these hazards. Budge’s premium covers feature a fleece-like lining to protect your car’s paintjob and water repellent technologies that shield against rain and now. The elastic hems and strap system give the cover a secure fit to your car so it doesn’t come off during winter gusts.
Check your tires
It is incredibly important that you check your tire pressure during the winter months. The cold temperatures can lower your tire pressure which will cause wear and damage to your tires when driving on them or cause a potential accident. If you live in an area that gets a lot of snow, consider switching to winter tires which do a better job at maintaining pressure in the cold and offer better traction for snowy conditions.
Replenish your fluids
It’s always smart to make sure your car’s fluid level are full. New washer fluid will be extremely helpful as your window gets covered in snow, dirt, salt, and other debris in the winter months. Replenishing your anti-freeze is also important. Anti-freeze will prevent your engine from freezing in the cold temperatures. You will also want to change your oil to ensure your engine runs smoothly. Old oil will thicken up, even more so in cold temperatures, and cause issues while driving.
The winter can be tough on any vehicle, but following these tips will ensure your vehicle survives the season.