Car Maintenance Tips For Winter
Highlights
- The winter season affects the car, due to which it behaves differently
- Cars need more care in winter than in summer
- Warm up your car before heading for your destination in the winter season
Your car's performance deteriorates during the winter. We have compiled a list of tips that will help you ensure that your vehicle stays up-to-date and does not show the signs of damage that comes with the winter season. Let's dive in!
Tyre Pressure
When the tyre becomes hotter, it expands, and when it gets colder, it contracts. These effects are directly related to tyre pressure. Driving with low tyre pressure due to the winter can severely impact the car's performance, so you should always check your tyre pressure regularly during this season. Ensure that your tyre pressure is as per the suggested parameters to make your ride safe and smooth.
Headlights and Foglamps
Fog is a primary factor behind low visibility during driving. Your foglamps must be in good condition as they will ensure that the light cuts through the fog. Almost all cars come with fog lamps these days, and if your car is an older model, you should purchase fog lamps from the market and get them fitted to ensure safety while riding in winter.
Antifreeze/Coolant Level
The coolant is a green-coloured liquid that helps your engine cool down in high temperatures. This same liquid helps as an antifreeze during the winter season. The chemicals in this liquid ensure that the engine is protected from getting jammed or frozen. The coolant ensures that the engine is always performing at its optimum level. Hence, always keep a check on your coolant levels during the winter (as well as in the summer).
Keep your Battery Fully Charged
The Winter season attributes to putting more stress on your vehicle's engine. You should always check your battery and charging system so that your car starts as soon as you push the ignition. Repair shops don't charge much to check the battery, and some even do it for free. You can buy a new battery if your battery's condition is not optimum.
Warm Up Your Car
You must warm up your car before starting the ride. This is probably the simplest but the most important tip. While the latest cars models claim to be safe from this phenomenon, cars face problems when they are not warmed up in winter.
Warming up your car ensures that the engine oil covers all the corners of your engine. You should thoroughly lubricate your engine before you start moving your vehicle. Doing this will reduce wear and tear that is a normal phenomenon.
The engine oil tends to thicken during winter, and it takes more time for it to flow through the different parts of the engine thoroughly. It is suggested that you warm your car for 3-5 minutes before moving. This will ensure that your car performs optimally.
Conclusion
Your car performs differently during summer and winter. While it is easier to warm up your car in the summer, it is much more difficult to do so in the winter. You have to take extra precautions to not spend a lot on repairs in the winter. Follow the tips given here to reduce the chances of a breakdown during the winter season.