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Winterizing your car is almost as important as insuring it. Unless you’re traveling by one-horsed-open sleigh this winter, spend a little time and a few bucks to prepare your vehicle for the season. Think of it as a supplement to your car insurance. You’ll help avoid the aggravation of getting stuck or stranded or worse yet, having an accident. Before you begin any procedure on your vehicle, always check your owner’s manual for the specific recommended procedures. Your engine is the best place to begin. Start by changing your oil. This helps your engine run cleaner and smoother, reducing friction between vital internal components. Exxon Superflo motor oils offer a number of excellent multi-viscosity oils for increased protection in extreme weather conditions. Also, check your spark plugs, belts, hoses and air filter Make sure the plugs aren’t fouled and the rubber hoses and belts aren’t cracked or showing signs of excessive wear. Next is your cooling system. Your system should be flushed every year or two, depending on how may miles you drive. Your anti-freeze/coolant should be mixed with water (usually 50/50) and should offer protection to minus 34 degrees Fahrenheit. Check your thermostat to make sure it is operating properly. While inspection it, make sure the spring isn’t stuck. A thermostat stuck in an open position will result in little or no heat in your car. Next, check your battery. Many of today’s models are maintenance free and have a display window at the top. The window can reveal the remaining life of the battery. Other, older batteries may require periodic fluid checks. Remember: A battery supplies half as much cranking power in zero degree weather. While you’re at it, check for corrosion at the terminals and clean with baking soda and water, then coat with a little petroleum jelly to protect. See to it that the battery cables are tight. Perhaps the most frequently neglected component of your car is the transmission. People report more problems with automatics in winter mostly due to rocking the car back and fourth when stuck. Check the transmission fluid and make sure it is full and has a reddish hue to it. If you see metal shavings, have it serviced immediately. Obviously, it’s a good idea to check wiper blades and windshield solvent. You might want to carry and extra gallon of solvent on board. Also make sure all your lights work. As for the tires, check for wear and cracking. Bald spots can mean disaster on slippery roads. If replacement is necessary, all-season radials work fine. Snow tires are the best bet for vehicles that will frequently see heavy snow and steep grades Your car’s appearance can be protected from ice, salt and extreme temperatures by washing and waxing. Use a protectant on weather stripping and vinyl and shield your carpet by using good floor mats. It doesn’t hurt to lubricate locks and latches. A winter survival kit should be stored in your vehicle as a security measure. Items should include jumper cables, ice scraper, flashlight, boots, blanket, basic tools, shovel, windshield solvent and ample amounts of food and water. Yes it’s certain that old man winter will come and go, but prevention is the key to making the transition smooth. |
