5 Tips to Prepare Your Car for Winter
With the onset of the winter months approaching there is a lot to look forward too. Thanksgiving is right around the corner with Christmas and other holidays alike quickly approaching. This time of the year is when we spend a significant amount of time with our families and loved ones. However, most usually this entails a lot of travel which in the winter months in Illinois can be dangerous. In addition to the good times winter brings, it also brings with it dangerous road conditions. The purpose of this article is to help prepare your vehicle for the winter ahead.
Tip 1: Keep Your Gas Tank Full
If you are a resident in the state of Illinois, you surely are familiar with the weather conditions that winter can produce. In the Chicago area, it gets especially cold and often we see temperatures in the negatives. When the temperature drops to a certain point it can in turn freeze your fuel lines. Therefore, you should be sure that your gas tank is at least half full. This tip will assure that you do not get stranded or “froze out”.
Tip 2: Check Your Battery
Next, though this tip does apply to any season, its especially important during the colder months. The onset of cold weather causes your car battery to work harder. To clarify, an uncharged battery could damage your ability to drive, and we suggest you check your battery level prior to the winter season. Furthermore, many mechanics will check your battery level for free, Auto Zone is one example.
Tip 3: Winterized Tires
This is a big one and many fail to do it. Above all, you will want to check your tire pressure and the tread on your tires prior to the winter. Look for wear and cracks to identify the health of your tires. In addition, there are snow tires out there as well to help manage the snowy and icy conditions we expect to face.
Tip 4: Change Your Oil
Fourth, you will want to inspect your oil levels before winter. Obviously, this is something every driver should be aware of regardless of the season. That being said, it is especially important this time of year. Depending on your specific car, the winter season could call for different oil to be used. In the event your vehicle calls for different oil in the winter months, you will want it changed. Lastly, to determine this check your cars manual.
Tip 5: Top Off Your Fluids
Finally, the last tip calls for you to make sure you check your fluid levels. To clarify, make sure that your washer fluid has a good antifreeze solution and make sure your wipers work properly. Furthermore, its suggested that people change their wipers every six months. While checking fluids and wipers, be sure to make sure that your defroster and heat work in your car. In conclusion, repairs for things like this are pricy, but essential to your safety behind the wheel in the winter months.