It is not a good idea to face the driving challenges that winter brings if you haven’t made sure your vehicle is well-prepared beforehand. The winter season brings with it many risks, especially with a large number of older cars on the road, which can lead to an increase in breakdowns during winter months. Preventive maintenance is the way to go, for saving time, money, and safety for everyone. Preparing your car for the winter will involve these very important steps, which is going to help you stay safe and avoid costly repairs.
Visibility: The First Line of Defense
Visibility is very crucial during wintertime. The nights are going to be longer while the days are going to be shorter. Consequently, it is highly essential that all lights, including the headlights, taillights, and turn signals, are in perfect working condition. Most newer models come with daytime running lights, which means that the headlights are more or less on throughout the day. Nonetheless, the switch is the most crucial component of the test, which is why when there is daylight, switch on the headlights alone if the switch is on.
What appears to be a very minor action can significantly increase your visibility to other drivers, reducing the risk of accidents. Headlights are the primary and unavoidable means of lighting up the road, especially in the case of morning or evening traffic. All your headlights should be checked, and any burnt bulbs should be replaced at once.
Besides this, if your vehicle comes with high beams and fog lights, do check them as well. Actually, these lights are of great help in low visibility conditions as they will lead you through fog, snow, or heavy rain and at the same time make you invisible to other drivers. So, not only is it important for you to see the road, but also for other drivers to see you. So, have a light check done on your vehicle before the winter months set in, to avoid any inconveniences later on. The same goes for taillights, which serve the same purpose and are just as important. In other words, they are a sort of signal to the drivers behind you that you are there and what your next move is going to be, e.g., braking or turning.
Check your taillights frequently, especially after long driving trips or in poor weather conditions. In case you find a problem, it is always better to take your car to a professional mechanic for checking and fixing. We at Maclane’s Automotive on Horseshoe Pike in PA are always there to help you with any lighting problem, therefore ensuring that your vehicle is safe and visible on the road.
Tires: Your Car’s Only Point of Contact with the Road
Tires are the only contact between your automobile and the road surface, so they must be in top condition when used in the cold season. One of the myths that often comes up when it comes to tire tread depth is the penny test. Although this was a good measure in the past, the technology used for tires has progressed so much that the quarter test is now the one to be followed. Just put a quarter upside down in the tread groove. If you are able to see all of George Washington’s head, then it is time for you to buy new tires. This is very important because in winter conditions, an average vehicle could take up to 80 feet longer to stop than a car with new tires. Making sure that your tires are ready for the winter can really increase your safety on the roads.
Aside from the tread depth, tire pressure should also be checked frequently. A lowered temperature may cause tire pressure to drop, which consequently may lead to negative traction and fuel efficiency of your car, which is a very likely scenario. At least once a month, tire pressure should be measured using a tire pressure gauge and then adjusted according to the vehicle manufacturer’s specifications for that specific model. Correct tire pressure is the main safety factor affecting driving, and it is the most important factor during winter. If you are not sure how to check or change your tire pressure, you should just go to a professional for help. Tire rotation is another area of tire maintenance that requires attention.
By changing the position of your tires regularly and taking their wear into account, you will have tires of the same quality on all sides of the car for a longer period. It is usual for car makers to suggest a tire rotation after every 5,000 to 8,000 miles. But if you notice uneven tire wear or vibrations, then having an early rotation done may be a good idea. Maclane’s Automotive will take care of your tire rotations and other maintenance services so that your vehicle is winter-ready.
Battery: The Heart of Your Vehicle
Your EV’s battery is very important, especially when it is cold, as it is the only means to get your engine running. When your battery has been operating for more than three years, it is smart to have it checked by a mechanic that you can trust (like ours here at Maclane’s Automotive). Low temperatures can lead to battery capacity reduction, which eventually causes your car to start hard. A poor battery can leave you isolated so it is better to confirm that it is in order before ending up in a bad situation. If your battery is old or weak, think of getting it replaced before winter arrives. Our team of experts is ready to support you by testing and replacing your battery so that your vehicle can start without fail, even when it is cold.
If you must carry out a battery test yourself, it is absolutely necessary that your entire electrical system is functioning properly. First, inspect the battery terminals and cables very thoroughly and check for any corrosion or damage; if they are dirty, just clean them. If your car’s electrical system is showing any signs of problems, like dim lights or slow cranking of the engine, let a mechanic check it. The regular maintenance of both the battery and the electrical system can not only eliminate the chance of costly breakdowns but also keep your vehicle is running properly with no fuss during the cold months.
Wiper Blades and Washer Fluid: Clear Vision in All Conditions
The wiper blades and washer fluid are the key elements for having a good sight even in the worst winter condition like heavy snow and storms. Heavy rains can also completely block the vision on the roads, making the driving conditions unsafe. You should frequently inspect the condition of your wiper blades, and if they are not doing their job, then you need to get new ones. Change your wiper blades every 6-12 months or use them until they are worn out as a good approach. If your wipers are already a year old or more, then you should definitely have them checked and replaced if the condition is bad; otherwise, you might get into some trouble.
In addition to wiper blades, make sure that your washer fluid is suitable for winter too. The regular water-based washer fluid can become frozen during winter periods, which will not only make it useless, but it could also lead to damage of your car’s washer system. To prevent freezing in winter seasons, do not choose washer fluid that has a freezing point less than- 20 or- 25 degrees Fahrenheit. We are here to support you with wiper blades replacement and the right choice of washer fluid so that your car’s windshield remains clear and secure during the winter.
Other Winter Car Readiness Tips
There are other steps that could be taken regarding car maintenance besides the essential tasks that were mentioned earlier. It is wise to avoid letting the gas tank dip below the half-mark; this will lead to emergency preparedness, as well as prevent the fuel line from freezing up. This implies that you have adequate fuel for emergencies if they occur. To this end, the first step is to verify the antifreeze levels in your automobile and refill them if needed. The antifreeze acts as a barrier that keeps the engine from freezing in the winter, and it ensures the vehicle starts and operates smoothly.
In addition, defrosting and heating systems need to be checked. The car heater is one of the most important systems a person needs during the winter, as it provides comfort by making the car warm; however, the defroster is the one who makes it possible to see the road and traffic through the windshield by getting rid of fog and condensation. In case of any issues in the heating or defrosting system, it is better to go for the services of an expert who can identify the problem and fix it.
Besides, think of an emergency kit being kept in your vehicle full of things like a flashlight, extra batteries, a first-aid kit, warm clothes, non-perishable food, and water. In case of a breakdown or emergency, the items would not only be a great help in keeping you safe and comfortable until help arrives but also in transporting you. Maclane’s Automotive is here to provide you with a list of suggested emergency kit items and car preparation for winter.
Professional Help: Trusted Mechanics and Auto Repair Locations
Your EV’s battery is very important, especially when it is cold, as it is the only means to get your engine running. When your battery has been operating for more than three years, it is smart to have it checked by a mechanic that you can trust (like ours here at Maclane’s Automotive). Low temperatures can lead to battery capacity reduction, which eventually causes your car to start hard. A poor battery can leave you isolated, so it is better to confirm that it is in order before ending up in a bad situation. If your battery is old or weak, think of getting it replaced before winter arrives.
Moreover, we offer our services, and we can also guide you to a trustworthy mechanic or an auto repair place in your region. Go to AAA.com and search for the certified auto repair locations and the independent shops located close to you. The places give you the required expert help to make your car safe and dependable in snowy weather.
Choose Maclane’s Automotive For Quality Repairs
Being ready with a winter car is crucial for safety and also for avoiding unexpected breakdowns. If you are going to repeat the preventive maintenance checklist mentioned in this piece, then not only will it be a time and money saver, but your car can be ready to face winter like a pro. Checking lights and tires, maintaining battery and washer fluid, and so on, can all be considered as very important steps to ensure your safety on the road.
Maclane Automotive is always on the side of winter preparation for your car. A team of seasoned technicians doing all kinds of services for your vehicle to be in its best state to meet the winter’s ordeal assures that you have a safe and reliable driving experience. Contact us today at (610) 590-9974 to schedule an appointment or learn more about our winter car readiness services. With the right preparation and professional help, you can enjoy a safe and worry-free winter driving experience.
