When winter weather comes around, it's essential to prepare. Preparing your vehicle is the first step in getting ready for these cold months. You can do many things to ensure that your car will be in good working order when the snow starts falling and the roads start getting icy. Here, we will discuss some of those tips and how they may help you prevent problems with your vehicle during the winter season in Auburn, IN.
Inspect Your Battery
One common winter problem is a dead battery. This scenario occurs because the cold weather reduces the car's efficiency and drains power from your vehicle's battery. There are two things you can do to prevent this:
- Keep it charged by keeping it plugged in and turning your headlights off while you wait for it to warm up. Only use the heat sparingly.
- Keep it warm by using a blanket or some newspapers to cover up all but the top part of the battery.
You're welcome to schedule certified battery service at our dealership near Kendallville, IN to extend the life of your car's battery.
Check Your Tires
The cold weather can cause the air in your tires to decrease, so take care of this problem by ensuring that you have the correct tire pressure for winter conditions. You'll want to check the pressure every week or two because it would be dangerous to drive around Columbia City, IN with under-inflated tires while there is snow on the ground. Additionally, we can help you find the right tires for your vehicle at our tire center.
Brakes
Brakes are also a concern in the winter, as the cold weather can cause them to wear down faster. Ensure that you keep an eye on your brake pads with certified brake service, and replace them when necessary. Also, try not to use your brakes too much when driving in the snow. Instead, try to slow down by using gears and coasting as much as possible.
Oil Changes
In addition to snow on the ground, you'll also have to deal with slush being thrown up on your car from all the other cars and trucks pummeling through the inclement weather. This scenario can cause your engine to corrode and rust. You'll want to make sure you get regular oil changes during these months, or at least schedule them more frequently than usual if this is a common occurrence for your travels to Hicksville, OH.
How to Drive in Winter Weather Around Fort Wayne
Get winter tires, but do not put them on until there is snow on the ground; they will not help much if there is no ice or snow. If you must drive in slippery conditions without winter tires, be careful and slow down as much as possible.
Be wary of black ice, which can appear even when there isn't any snow. This thin sheet of ice can be very difficult to detect with just your eyesight. Also, try to avoid driving in the early morning or evening when temperatures are at their coldest.
Drive slowly and carefully and leave plenty of distance between you and the car in front of you. You'll also want to use your brakes cautiously and only turn your steering wheel when your car points in the direction that you want to go.
Make sure that you have an emergency kit in your car in case of an accident or another emergency. This kit should include a flashlight, jumper cables, a first-aid kit, water, food, and a blanket.
Never drive through standing water. If your car stalls out, don't try to restart it; instead, stay in your car and wait for the floods to recede before continuing.
Contact Our Service Specialists
You're welcome to visit our Auburn, IN service center to inquire about our winter preparation services for your car and the service and parts specials that make your prep even more affordable. We can help you get your car ready for the cold weather so that you can drive safely and efficiently. Driving in the snow can be a bit of a challenge if you're like most people. With a few preparations, you can stay safe on the roads this winter. Please contact us today and get your car ready for the winter.
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