Winter keeps on coming. It’s time for preventative winter vehicle car care maintenance. It’s better to discover issues with your car now, rather than while on the road dealing with snow & ice. We at Contain Your Stuff Penticton have some suggestions for you.
Winter Vehicle Car
Winter tires
You will have heard this many times, but it really is important and well worth the time/money to switch. Winter tires offer about 50 % more traction than all-seasons. If they avoid just one fender bender, think of the time and cost saved plus no insurance claim. On top of that, the air pressure in all four tires should be checked because, during winter, the pressure in tires can drop significantly due to the cold air. Re-check this a few times throughout the winter months.
Wiper blades
Driving visibility is always key to avoiding accidents, and especially more in winter driving. That’s why wiper blades should be checked early in the season and replaced if they streak. Wiper blades should be changed at least twice a year, and consider getting special winter wiper blades to prevent snow and ice buildup. Windshield wipers are key to vehicle care in the winter.
Windshield fluids
Top up your windshield washer fluid with antifreeze mix.
Batteries
Battery faults can cause breakdowns and happen more often in cold temperatures. The average battery life is generally three to five years. If you’ve had your battery for longer than that, and you’re experiencing difficulties with starting your car, it may be time to consider getting a new battery.
Air conditioning system
I bet you never thought about checking your air conditioning system before the winter. Why, you may ask? It’s your air conditioning system that defrosts and humidifies the inside of your car. So, if you turn your heat on in the winter and your air conditioning isn’t working properly, it won’t be able to defrost your windows and pull the moisture out of the inside of the car, which will leave a musty odour.
Lighting
Since there’s less daylight in winter, you will be driving in the dark more. Be sure to fix any bulbs that are out, and consider replacing any headlights that are foggy or yellow. Before driving, make sure you clear away any snow covering exterior lights on your car.
Be prepared
Seriously we all need to have an emergency roadside kit with a shovel, a small tool kit, booster cables, blankets, and matches and maybe a container with some sand.
Winters in Penticton can be tough, so make sure to follow these vehicle care tips! If you need to store away some of these items come summer, get a storage unit with us!
