Essential Winter Car Care Tips

If you have ever lived in a northern climate, you already know how extreme weather variations can be. Because of this, the winter season could end up being a nightmare for you and your vehicle if the proper precautions are not taken.

At Dilwari’s Crown Toyota, we know it’s important to maintain your vehicle year-round, the changes that come along with winter make it even more important than ever to keep your vehicle running well.

We’ve put together some winter tips for you to keep you on the road safely this winter season.

While many of us like to procrastinate and pretend winter will never come, getting ready in the fall is always a good idea. By doing so, it gives you time to get ahead of the crowd before the first snowfall. Don’t kid yourself, there will always be a rush and a long waiting list if you wait too long.

When it comes to your safety and the safety of others on the road, owning a set of winter tires for your vehicle is a good solution to the slippery roads of winter.

There are many reasons to swap your tires, but the most common reason is that winter tires are made from a softer rubber that gives you a better grip on the road in temperatures below 7 degrees. Simply put, more grip means more confidence, especially on our winter roads.

All-season tires are commonly used as an excuse to not switch, but when it comes to extreme weather, they are no match.

CHECK YOUR FLUIDS

Visibility is key when it comes to driving in the winter. It is important to check your windshield wiper fluid levels and its temperature allowance to ensure its usability in colder temperatures. If you want to clean your windshield of ice and snow, you don’t want the fluid to be freezing.

Windshield wiper blades also have a lifespan. If you think it’s time to change them, it probably is. Everyone knows the frustrations of old wiper blades so don’t hesitate when it comes to changing them.

Fluids also include your gas. Keeping your vehicle topped off is important in the winter to prevent water from accumulating in your fuel pump which can cause it to freeze. Not only are you protecting your vehicle, but you are also protecting yourself. A full tank of gas means you can keep yourself warm by running your car for longer.

Winter weather will affect your oil’s effectiveness. The colder it gets, the thicker the oil will be. While this can cause issues, purchasing oil thinner than normal can help. Typically, this information can be found in the owner’s manual of your vehicle which would refer to using different oil viscosities for different seasons.

Like all electronics, cold temperatures can stress a car battery’s lifespan. Before it gets too cold, it’s important to make sure your battery is strong enough to endure the winter season. One thing to consider is that a working battery in the summer may still result in a dead battery in the winter. No one likes being stuck in their driveway, or better yet, on the side of the road. Professional equipment is typically required to measure your battery’s strength so scheduling an appointment early on is a good step to take.