How to Winterize your vehicle

How to winterize your vehicle

Winter weather can be rough on your automobile.  Don’t let the chilly temperatures and frozen snow get the best of your car this winter season. 

 

#1- Check your antifreeze- Make sure your antifreeze has the correct concentration of antifreeze to water.  Your best bet is to stop by and ask one of our GM trained technicians as the appropriate concentration can depend on your climate. 

#2- In severe winter temperatures, you may have to change the grade of your engine oil.  Check your vehicle’s Owner’s Manual for the viscosity grade recommended for your vehicle’s engine.  

#3- Flushing your cooling system and replacing the coolant can help remove contaminants and keeps your cooling system performing optimally. 

#4- Replace windshield wiper blades- cold temperatures can make blades brittle and ice on the windshield can cause nicks in the blades, decreasing performance. 

#5- Have your battery serviced because batteries are more inclined to fail in the cold weather.  Most cold weather breakdowns happen because batteries aren’t delivering full cranking power. While you’re there, get an electrical test as well to make sure your car’s electrical systems are running efficiently. 

#6- Check tire pressure as cold air makes air pressure drop.  Newer cars often contain tire light monitor sensors which will alert you if your tires are dropping in pressure levels.  You may notice these sensors come on more in the morning when temperatures are lower but turn off later in the day. This may be a reaction to the cold weather and not an indication that your tires need more pressure. 

#7- Check your lights, heater and defroster.  Keep your windshield clean and make yourself as visible as possible on the road. 

#8- Keep your gas tank as full as possible to prevent moisture from freezing in the lines 

#9- Get your brakes checked- the last thing you want in icy weather are faulty brakes. 

 

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