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You wouldn't head out into cold weather without bundling up. Your vehicle faces similar challenges as temperatures drop. The bottom line: it needs a little extra care as the mercury plummets. But a little preparation before winter sets in may prevent major headaches later.
Make sure you have a heavy-duty ice scraper and snow brush in your vehicle. A whiskbroom also makes an excellent snow brush.
Cold weather reduces tire pressure, so check tire pressure often. See your owner's manual for directions and details.
Cold weather affects battery efficiency. Most cold-weather breakdowns occur because batteries aren't delivering full cranking power. Also check to make sure battery cables are corrosion-free.
In severe winter temperatures, you may have to change the grade of your engine oil. Check your owner's manual for the viscosity grade recommended for your vehicle's engine.
Put on snow tires if you live in major snow belt areas. Check your owner's manual for details and recommended practices.
Check your wiper blades. Cold temperatures can make blades brittle, and ice on the windshield can cause nicks in the blades, decreasing performance.
If you're planning a trip, take a blanket, extra-warm clothing, a collapsible shovel, a bag of road salt and an extra bottle of windshield washer fluid. |
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