7 Helpful Ways to Winterize Your Car

Extreme cold temperatures and road salt can lead to costly problems with your car. Thankfully, there are things you can do to keep your vehicle in top shape and avoid expensive vehicle repairs during winter. Below are effective tips to winterize your vehicle:

1. Get Some Winter Tires

If you will be driving in slippery areas, consider switching to winter tires, for your safety. Compared to all-season tires, winter tires can shorten brake distances and can improve traction and control during extreme weather conditions. Don’t forget to also get inexpensive steel wheels to make it easier to switch to your summer tires after winter.

2. Check the Tire Pressure

When was the last time you checked your tires? Never drive on winter roads when you have low air pressure on your tires to avoid accidents and other problems. Check your tire’s air pressure or contact a mechanic for an inspection.

3. Check Your Car’s Battery

Are you aware that your car’s battery loses 20% of its capacity in freezing temperatures? If you live in even colder climates, expect the batter to lose 50% of its capacity especially when the temperature reaches below negative 20 degrees Fahrenheit. As much as possible, visit your local mechanic to have your battery checked especially if you suspect your car needs professional service.

4. Get the Right Engine Oil

Your car’s engine oil thickens in extremely cold temperatures, which is why it’s important to ensure you have the right motor oil for your car in the winter. Conventional oil is likely to solidify in colder weather as it contains waxes, restricting the oil’s ability to flow. Synthetic oil, on the other hand, doesn’t contain any waxes, making them the better option. We suggest contacting the manufacturer if you’re not sure which motor oil to use in the winter.

5. Check the Coolant

The engine coolant helps your car run smoothly without problems. But during winter, the coolant can freeze which is why you need to know the freezing point of your car’s coolant to avoid problems. Otherwise, your engine may heat up and oil is depleted, leading to problems with your vehicle’s internal components. Try to use 30% water and 70% antifreeze to lower the freezing point of your coolant.

6. Inspect the Fuel Levels

As much as possible, make sure you have more than half a tank of fuel so that you don’t get stranded somewhere during winter. Monitor your fuel levels if you don’t want to spend more money on towing.

7. Visit a Mechanic

Some components of your car are likely to become damaged in the winter. To avoid costly repairs, we highly recommend you get your vehicle serviced. Preventive maintenance is the only way to ensure your car is in excellent shape.

Contact Parks Chevrolet in Augusta, KS

Do you need your Chevrolet serviced for the winter? Our team of experienced mechanics can check your tire pressure, batteries and other important car components. If you’re looking for professional vehicle maintenance in Wichita, KS, please don’t hesitate to get in touch with us today.