It's no secret that the colder months are the time of mechanical failure for vehicles in some areas where the weather conditions are the harshest. The best way to avoid problems in the winter is to stay on top of preventative maintenance before the season starts. Here are some tips on what preventative maintenance is the most important and how to avoid those costly breakdowns during the fall and (eventually) winter months.
Engine Performance - If you notice any engine issues, such as hard starts, rough idling, stalling, or overall lack of power, it is important to have these issues looked at and corrected before going into winter.
Cooling Systems - The fluid in the cooling system should be flushed about every 24 months.
Windshield Wipers - Windshield wipers should be changed once a year. If snow is expected before winter, be sure to purchase weather-resistant wipers to fight against ice. An ice scraper is also handy during the colder months.
Heater/Defroster - Be sure that the heater and defrosters are working well before the winter. These will be very important for seeing clearly while driving and keeping comfortable on the road.
Battery - If you have a routine service coming up, ask your mechanic to run a quick test on your battery to make sure that it's still in good condition. Keeping your battery clean and removing buildup and corrosion can help extend the battery life.
Lights - Make sure your lights are all working. It also helps to use a wax or cleaning solution on the lens of the lights to ensure that they are bright and visible.
Tires - Tires can be critical during fall and wintertime, especially in icy climates. If your tires are heavily worn, it may be time to buy new ones or switch to winter tires. If your tires are worn, there will be no traction and this can be extremely dangerous in the rain or snow.
If you need help getting your car ready for fall, feel free to bring your car to Auto Clinic Care in Rockville, MD today!