It’s cold and snowy in New England right now, and drivers are concerned about road safety and keeping their cars in good shape. Ongoing vehicle maintenance is essential at any time of year, but you especially need to keep up with it in the winter. Ice, snow, and frigid temperatures all have adverse effects on your car, and preventative maintenance is the best way to stay safe. Below-freezing temperatures can be especially problematic for your engine, tires, and battery. Our Waltham auto repair experts at Weston Automotive are here to help you maintain your car in the cold.
Take these four tips from our Waltham auto repair team to keep your car running this winter, no matter how cold it gets outside.
Monitor Battery Power
A common problem for many drivers in winter is how their batteries perform in cold weather. When temperatures drop below freezing, it’s harder for your battery to maintain a charge, and your car can even fail to start. To avoid getting stuck or needing a jump when it’s freezing out, have your battery tested to ensure it’s holding a charge.
Check Your Tires
Tire pressure and tread are crucial for winter driving. Tire pressure drops about 1 PSI for every 10-degree drop in temperature, so always check your tire pressure after a significant temperature drop. To ensure your pressure stays at the correct level, it’s a good idea to check it once a week in the winter. Additionally, you should check your tread depth and consider switching to winter tires if you haven’t already.
Use the Right Fluids
Not all vehicle fluids can withstand the cold. Your mechanic should recommend engine oil, antifreeze, and other winter-specific fluids. For example, a low-viscosity (thinner) oil will flow more easily through your engine in the cold. You should also confirm that your antifreeze is at a 50:50 ratio and that you are using a winter-rated windshield washer fluid to prevent freezing.
Take Safety Precautions
Last but not least, you should take some additional safety precautions. Assemble a winter emergency kit to keep in your car. Include a snow brush and ice scraper, jumper cables, flashlight, blanket, an extra hat and gloves, bottled water, and non-perishable snacks. You should also adapt your driving habits to winter conditions. Allow extra time to reach any destination, watch for black ice, and remember that stopping distances are longer on slippery surfaces.