Yes, You Can … Prepare Your Car For Winter Weather!
By Arlene Bascom
Recently, I read an article by the Car Care Council about winterizing your vehicle; they said preparing your car for winter weather could give peace of mind and help avoid the cost and hassles of a breakdown during severe weather. Seniors especially need that peace of mind, so I wanted to share their tips.
An investment of an hour or two to have your vehicle checked is all it takes. “The last thing any driver needs is a vehicle that breaks down in cold, harsh winter weather,” said Rich White, executive director, Car Care Council. “A vehicle check before the temperatures drop is a sensible way to avoid the inconvenience of being stranded out in the cold and the unexpected expense of emergency repairs.”
Following are the things the Car Care Council (and several other experts) recommend either you or a mechanic should do to prepare your car for winter weather.
1. Have a mechanic check the battery and charging system for optimum performance. Cold weather is hard on batteries, so this is especially important before winter.
2. Clean, flush, and put new antifreeze in the cooling system to ensure the levels are sufficient to avoid freezing. As a rule of thumb, do this every two years.
3. Make sure heaters, defrosters, and windshield wipers work properly. Consider purchasing winter wiper blades, and use cold weather washer fluid. Generally, wiper blades should be replaced every six months.
4. Check the tread depth and pressure of your car tires. Since snow and ice can be a definite problem in our area, consider special tires designed to grip slick roads. During winter, tire pressure should be checked often.
5. Check oil levels and weight. Heavier oils congeal more at low temperatures and do not lubricate as well. Consider changing to “winter weight” oil to avoid problems. Be diligent about changing the oil and filter at recommended intervals. Dirty oil can spell trouble in winter. Have your technician check the fuel, air, and transmission filters at the same time. Keep water out of the system by using additives and maintaining a full tank of gas.
6. If you’re due for a tune-up, do it before winter sets in. Winter magnifies existing problems such as pings, hard starts, sluggish performance, or rough idling.
7. Have the brakes checked. The braking system is the vehicle’s most important safety feature, so keeping the brakes in top working order is one of the best things you can do for winter safety.
8. Have the exhaust system checked for carbon monoxide leaks, which can be especially dangerous during cold weather driving when windows are closed. Carbon monoxide is deadly and usually gives no warning
9. Check to see that exterior and interior lights and flashing hazard lights work and that headlights are properly aimed.
10. Thermostat—ensure it works properly.
11. Keep the gas tank at least half full at all times to decrease the chances of moisture forming in the gas lines and possibly freezing.
12. Check the tire pressure of the spare in the trunk.
The Car Care Council is the source of information for the “Be Car Care Aware” consumer education campaign, promoting the benefits of regular vehicle care, maintenance, and repair. For a copy of the council’s Car Care Guide or for more information, visit www.carcare.org.