How to Get Your Car Ready For Winter
It is important during the winter to ensure that your car is operating properly. No one wants to wait for long hours to be rescued, just because the vehicle they were driving broke down in the midst of nowhere. You will need to take a number of protective measures in order to ensure that your vehicle is running during the cold days of winter.
Things Required:
– Fuel de-icer
– Oil filter
– Rubber-clad windshield wipers
– Windshield washer solvent
– Sandpaper
– Car bulbs
– Spare tires
– Jack
– Necessary emergency gear
Instructions
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1
Engine Performance
If you have been experiencing problems such as hard starts, rough idling and stalling with the engine of your vehicle, get them fixed before the start of winter. If you fail to do so, problems with your engine will become worse during the winter season. It will also be a good idea to get the drive belts, clamps and hoses checked by a professional mechanic. -
2
Fuel
At least once a month, add fuel de-icer in the gas tank of your vehicle. This will effectively prevent moisture from freezing in your vehicle’s fuel line. -
3
Oil
For every 3000 miles your vehicle is driven, get the engine oil and oil filter replaced. -
4
Cooling Systems
At least once in 24 months, get the cooling system of the vehicle entirely flushed and the coolant refilled. Be sure to check the level, condition and concentration of the coolant in the cooling system from time to time. -
5
Windshield Wipers
Heavy snow build-ups are a common sight in the winter. To prevent such an outcome, get rubber-clad windshield wipers installed before the snowy season starts. -
6
Heater/Defroster
To keep yourself protected against cold weather, make sure both heater and defroster in you vehicle are in proper working condition. Get them fixed at an auto repair workshop if required. -
7
Battery
Sand away carbon or rust deposits from the terminals of your vehicle’s battery with sandpaper and properly tighten all electrical connections. Check the battery fluid level if possible. -
8
Lights
Even days can get pretty dark during the winter. For this reason, make sure all the lights on your vehicle are working properly. Replace damaged bulbs and lights. -
9
Tires
Always keep a spare tire and a jack in your vehicle. Get the overall state of your vehicle’s tires inspected by a professional because if they are worn out, you can have problems driving in the snow or ice. Always check the tire pressure on a regular basis. -
10
Emergency Gear
Be sure to have the necessary emergency gear such as a pair of gloves, a blanket, flares, sand or kitty litter, tire chains and a flashlight in your vehicle at all times.
