Tips for Winterizing Your Car #3

With the oncoming Winter season in front of us, it’s a good idea to take a few precautions to make sure your car can handle the harsh temperatures and (possibly) even the snow and ice. Be sure to check out post number 1 and 2 for more tips!

Check your tires and tire pressure

If it’s time to get a new set of tires, just before the cold sets in is the best time to do it. Your tire’s tread is needed to keep control of your car if you hit a patch of ice. The more tread your tires have, the better traction you have during a snowstorm or ice-storm. You may even consider switching out to a set of studded snow tires, if your Winters are super harsh.

If your tires have a good amount of tread on them, then you must ensure that your tires have the proper amount of tire pressure. If they are under-inflated, then the tread on your tires shore up and don’t make contact with the road, increasing your chances of skidding if you hit an ice patch. Check your owner’s manual for the proper tire pressure.

Get a tune-up

The belts and hoses under the hood are important to keep it running at its best. The problem with harsh winters is that it takes its toll on those belts and hoses. If you spring a leak or have a frayed belt, it will only worsen in the Winter. Harsh temperatures and the necessity of running your engine tougher than usual could very easily mean a busted belt or an engine that can’t hold it’s liquids. Both of which are very bad and, potentially, very costly. Your engine depends on anti-freeze and other liquids to keep everything working properly (brakes, transmission, etc..). If your hoses are leaky, then you’re running the risk of having a major problem on your hands. It’s best to get all of your belts, hoses, and liquids checked before winter so you know your car will be up to speed and ready to go during those chilly days.