Stories
Winter Car Care: 5 Essential Checks to Avoid Breakdowns.
- •Battery capacity decreases in cold; clean terminals bi-weekly, check connections, and get a voltage test for cars over three years old.
- •Tire pressure drops in cold weather; check monthly, maintain correct levels, and ensure good tread depth for optimal grip.
- •Use coolant mixed with antifreeze in the correct ratio to prevent freezing and engine damage; flush coolant before winter and check for leaks.
- •Replace old wiper blades for clear vision; use antifreeze-mixed windshield washer fluid and clear ice/fog from the windshield.
- •Let the engine warm up; use the correct grade of engine oil for cold weather, and ensure the heater and defroster are working properly.
Key Questions Answered
As winter approaches, cold air, fog, and rain negatively impact various vehicle parts like decreasing battery capacity, dropping tire pressure, and delaying engine warm-up times. Ignoring these issues can lead to problems such as failing to start in the morning, brake failure, or getting stranded on the road.
Cold weather reduces a battery's ability to hold a charge. You should clean the battery terminals every two weeks, check for loose connections, and get a professional voltage test if the car is older than three years. Additionally, covering the car's bonnet overnight and keeping jump-start cables in the car is recommended.
Because cold air contracts and causes tire pressure to drop, you should check your tire pressure monthly and maintain the correct level according to the manual. Good tread depth is essential for grip on slippery roads, and equal pressure improves handling while saving fuel.
