How To Prepare Your Car For The Winters

How To Prepare Your Car For The Winters

Vehicle maintenance does not remain constant throughout the year. Every season comes with a unique set of challenges that you must remain ready for. And when the winters start to set in, taking weather changes for granted could mean risking your vehicle’s performance!

Here’s a checklist of some crucial areas you should check for to ensure great performance from your car, all winter long!

Coolant
Auto mechanics recommend mixing half a portion of coolant (also known as antifreeze) and half a portion of water instead of using just water in radiators. This prevents the engine from freezing out. So, stock up on coolant in the winters. Also, make sure that no leaks exist which can cause coolant to drain out of the engine.

Tyres
Regardless of whether you live in snowbound areas of north India or not, you must use winter tyres if temperatures fall below 20 degrees.

Battery
If you have a battery that performs poorly in the hot months, it is almost guaranteed to fail in the winter. Get a volt test done to check if it’s working fine. If it doesn’t perform well on the test, consider replacing it. That way, you will be spared from being stranded on a cold winter day!

Tyre pressure
Low tyre pressure may actually cause accidents and result in difficulty in controlling the car’s momentum. It causes tyres to wear out prematurely or even cause the tyre treads to separate. Get your tyre pressure checked and filled as per the recommendation throughout winter. When temperatures start rising again, you can let out some air.

Petrol Tank
The fuel tank should be kept full because a full tank does not allow the water in the radiator to freeze. Also, if your car gets stuck somewhere due to bad weather, a full tank means you can keep the engine running, and therefore keep yourself warm. Since cars are prone to breakdowns, it is advisable that you keep your Road Side Assistance number handy for emergencies. Consider investing in this car insurance with add-on because it comes handy during such unexpected emergencies.

Washer fluid
If you are driving in bad weather, the windshield wiper is your first line of defence. No driver can drive blindly, and fog, hailstorms and snowstorms affect the visibility of the roads. The windshield washer fluid may be needed to clear away debris during such situations continuously.

Lighting
Winter means it gets dark early. You will probably use your lights earlier in the day and for longer periods throughout winter. Walk through all your lighting, including the headlights and the tail lights. Make sure that all lights provide maximum possible illumination. Replace headlights that are yellow or foggy. Clean accumulated dust off the lights so that brightness can be improved.

Oil change
Oil and transmission fluids lose effectiveness during winters. As the temperature drops, oil becomes thicker, and this density prevents its circulation and lubrication in the car engine. This is a very important component of car maintenance in all weathers, but especially during the cold season. Take the assistance of a mechanic and get your engine oil changed regularly.

Wiper blades
Even the highest rated wiper blades on the market lose effectiveness after six months of active usage. Wiper blades should be replaced at least twice every year. However, during winters, their performance becomes all the more crucial. Therefore, if you notice missed areas during glass cleaning or streaks, get your wiper blades changed.

Survival package
If daily commute includes long drives or drives through isolated stretches, consider carrying a few essential items in your car at all times like first aid box, warm clothing, powerful knife, torch, cell phone charger, jumper cables.

Winter is an eagerly awaited time of the year, beautiful and full of enjoyment. A little preparedness on your part can ensure that it is just as enjoyable for your car too!