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National Car Care Month occurs twice a year in April and October. April's Car Care Month focuses on preparing your vehicle for the summer driving months, and October is about preparing your car for winter driving.
As winter approaches, drivers must ensure their cars are ready for the cold, wet, snow, and icy conditions. Proactive maintenance can prevent unwanted breakdowns and keep drivers and passengers safe. Below is a checklist for pre-winter car maintenance:
Prepare Your Car for Winter: A Maintenance Checklist
Battery Check: Cold weather can be brutal on car batteries. Ensure the battery is fully charged and the connections are clean, tight, and corrosion-free.
Tire Inspection: Check for adequate tread and the valve used to inflate the tire is tight and free of corrosion. Consider switching to winter tires in areas with snowy and icy conditions. Also, maintain proper tire pressure, as it tends to drop in colder temperatures. If your steering wheel shakes a little in your hands, you probably have tire problems.
Fluid Levels:
Antifreeze: Ensure your car's antifreeze mixture is at the correct level and concentration.
Windshield Washer Fluid: Use a winter-grade fluid that won't freeze in cold temperatures.
Oil: Some vehicles may benefit from winter-grade oil during colder months.
Brake System: Inspect all components to ensure they are in good working order, including checking brake pads, rotors, and fluids.
Heating and Cooling System: Ensure the car's heater and defroster work efficiently. Also, check the radiator and hoses for cracks or leaks.
Lights and Wipers: Visibility is crucial in winter. Check all lights, including hazards, to make sure they're functional. Apply a windshield slickening agent like RainX to improve visibility on your headlights and windshields. Replace old windshield wipers with winter-specific blades and ensure the rear defrost functions correctly.
Emergency Kit: Equip your vehicle with an emergency kit that includes a snow shovel, ice scraper, cat litter, flashlight, blankets, non-perishable food, water, and first-aid supplies. A portable tire inflator and handheld battery jumper (far better than jumper cables) are essential.
Exhaust System: Check for leaks or other issues, as problems can be dangerous during winter when windows remain closed.
Fuel: Keep your gas tank at least half full to prevent fuel lines from freezing.
Belts and Hoses: Cold temperatures can weaken belts and hoses. Inspect them for signs of wear, cracks, or fraying.
Taking these preventative steps before the winter chill sets in can ensure a safer and more reliable ride. Experts recommend having a trusted mechanic conduct a thorough winter inspection to spot any potential issues before they become significant problems.