HOW TO GET YOUR CAR READY FOR WINTER
November 19 2021, Wolfe Mazda
Many people look forward to the winter every year. During this season, you can go sledding, ice fishing, build a snowman, and so much more. While this season does bring a lot of happy memories for many people, it also brings more treacherous driving conditions. Before you decide to take your car on the road this winter, you need to prepare it for the extreme temperatures. Here is a look at some of the best ways to get your car ready for the winter.
Check the Battery
Extreme cold temperatures have a tendency to make car batteries die easily. This is partially due to the fact that automotive batteries are required to work much harder in the colder months. In order to ensure that your car battery does not leave you stranded this winter, it is a good idea to take your vehicle to a service department to have the voltage checked. A service technician will not only check the voltage of the battery but will also look for any corrosion or other damage to the battery.
Get a Set of Snow Tires
Winter tires are specially designed to handle extremely cold temperatures. The thick rubber and deeper tread help them grip the road better. Even if there is no snow on the road, having snow tires when temperatures get close to freezing will help to keep you safe.
In Quebec, snow tires are mandatory from December through March. The rest of the country strongly recommends that you use them doing those times as well.
Check the Windshield Wipers Often
Sleet, snow, and ice can cause damage to your wipers, without you even realizing it. Then, when you really need them the most, they are unable to perform at the level that you need them to. Also, if you do not park your car in a garage at night, it may be a good idea to position your wipers in the up position. This will help prevent them from freezing to the windshield at night.
Get a Tune-Up
Before the temperatures get too cold, it is a good idea to get a general tune-up on your car. During the tune-up, the technician will check certain components like the brakes, lights, spark plugs, heater, hoses, and other vital systems. This will help to ensure that your car is ready to take on the winter months.
Check the Coolant Levels
Antifreeze, or coolant, is very important to your car's engine. It is what helps to regulate its temperature. Because the engine is usually having to work harder in the winter months, it is important that the coolant is at the right level. If it looks to be a little low, you should fill it up with an antifreeze and water mixture.
At Wolfe Langley Mazda, we can help you get your car ready for the winter. If you have any questions, you can contact us. For your convenience, you can also schedule an appointment online with our service department.
