Preparing Your Car for the Winter Weather

By By Terry Toner, Kettering-Oakwood Automotive

The winter months are hard on most of us weather-wise. It’s not the best time to be outside. Imagine how your car feels, sitting out in the cold and driving through snow and ice all winter long. Cold temperatures, salt-residue from the roads and ice can cause major problems for your vehicle. However, here’s a few simple tips for winterizing your vehicle.

• Replace or Refill All Fluids. The number one way to ensure your car is ready for winter is to check your fluid levels. This includes the coolant, oil and wiper fluid. Your coolant must have the correct antifreeze/water levels to prevent any fluid from freezing in your radiator.
• Inspect or Switch Your Tires. Make sure to check that your tires have good tire pressure and they are not worn down.
• Check Your Battery. Your battery can lose power in the winter due to the cold temperatures and oil can thicken making it difficult for your vehicle to turn over. Have your battery checked.
• Protect Your Car Inside and Out From Ice and Salt. Dirt and salt can have huge impacts on your car’s paint job and floors. To protect your car’s paint, apply a fresh coat of wax before winter comes. Washing your car regularly can undermine the effects of dirt and salt and deter rust from forming on your car. Pick up floor mats if you don’t already own some to protect your car’s carpet and floorboards. Freezing temperatures can also cause water that has gotten into door and trunk locks to freeze and lock you out of your vehicle. Lubricate the locks before they freeze or use an antifreeze product to unlock them.
• Pack an Emergency Kit. It’s always a good idea to pack some essentials in case of an emergency. Keep things like road flares, a jack, lug wrench, first aid kid and blanket in your car. Make a winter safety kit with these items and a flashlight, bag of kitty litter or sand, ice scraper, brush, small shovel and snacks.
• Keep Up Regular Maintenance. You may be able to do some things. But, you may also consider taking your car to a mechanic and have him or her check over everything.
• Inspect Key Items on Your Vehicle. For instance, have your oil and air filter inspected, as well as your heating and defrosting systems. Also, replace wiper blades if needed. Likewise, make sure your lights are in working order.

This checklist will help ensure a safe and warm winter for you and your family. For more information, visit bbb.org or call (937) 222-5825 or (800) 776-5301. Your Better Business Bureau can provide a list of BBB Accredited mechanics like Kettering-Oakwood Automotive, as well as Business Profiles on ones you’re considering.