Breakdowns can be costly anytime of the year, and especially during the winter months. Preparation can help to ensure you’ll arrive at your destination safe and sound. Winter breakdowns often occur in harsh weather, which can end up literally being deadly.
Preventive maintenance on your car is an absolute must, and it insures your car will be safer and easier to drive. The extended life also helps if you should decide to sell your vehicle.
If you're a weekend warrior, there's maintenance you may be able to perform yourself. If you're not so keen on making your own repairs, it won't hurt to hire a qualified auto mechanic to get your vehicle in top running condition.
Here are a few timely tips that can make winter bearable:
1. Increase the performance of your engine by replacing dirty filters including air, fuel, and oil.
2. Make it a point to put de-icer in your tank at least once a month to prevent the moisture in your fuel tank from freezing in the fuel line. Gas tanks that are kept full will also help to keep moisture from forming.
3. Change the engine oil and filtered as specified in your car manual. Every 3000 miles is a safe bet. In winter climates, make sure you purchase winter grade oil.
4. Flush your cooling system and refill as recommended. If you're not sure how to fill your radiator safely, and check all the hoses, clamps, and drive belts, have a pro do if for you.
5. If your windshield wipers have worn blades, replace them at the first opportunity. Put a windshield ice scraper in your car, and make sure the wiper reservoir has plenty of washer solvent.
6. Hopefully your vehicle’s defroster and heater are in good working condition. Driving in winter conditions often requires good visibility.
7. Detecting a weak battery is usually done with professional equipment. It must be clear from corrosion, and the posts and cable connections must be clean and free of corrosive deposits. If the battery caps are removable, make sure you check your fluid levels on a regular basis.
8. Inspect your vehicle’s lights to make sure they're all working. Replace any burned out bulbs, and use a moist rage to clean off any dirt or grime from vehicle light lenses.
9. Take your vehicle to a professional to examine your vehicle's exhaust system. Exhaust fumes entering the cabin of your car or truck can be deadly.
10. Worn tires are bad enough in good weather, and can be quite useless in winter weather conditions. Check for tread wear, cupping, and the sidewall for cuts and nicks. And, don't forget to check the tire pressure on all tires. Make sure you have a spare tire and jack in the trunk.
11. Always carry extra blankets, gloves, boots, tire chains, flashlights, and a cell phone. One or more of these items might just help save your life in an emergency.
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