Preparing for a Hot Summer

Summer is officially over. Soon, those cold winter temperatures will set in, which means it's time to winterize your car. Proper winterization will help prevent breakdowns and other problems that could plague you during your winter commute. If this will be your first winter living in freezing temperatures, and you're not sure how to winterize your car, here are four steps to get you started.

Check the Tires

Tires take a lot of abuse during the winter, especially if they're subjected to snow and ice. Not only that, but the rock salt that's placed on the roadways to melt the ice can also wreak havoc on your tires. Before winter arrives, have your tires inspected for signs of damage. If the tread is wearing thin, or your tires were designed for warmer weather, it's a good idea to purchase new tires before the first snow or ice arrives.

Change the Oil

If you're used to living in regions where the weather is mild all year long, you might not be aware that your car will need to have its oil changed. Running a thicker viscosity oil during the winter can cause the oil to freeze up in your car. When that happens, you're not going to be able to drive your car. To prevent problems, have the oil changed in your car before the freezing temperatures arrive.

Check the Battery

The last thing you want is for your battery to go dead this winter. Unfortunately, if the battery in your car is weak, the cells can freeze once the temperatures dip. To ensure that your battery will have sufficient cranking power during those cold winter months, have it tested as soon as possible. If your battery is weak, have it replaced before winter officially arrives.

Change the Coolant

If you're running water in your radiator, or your coolant was designed for warmer weather, you'll need to have your radiator flushed before the temperatures dip too low. For maximum protection, and to prevent the fluid in your radiator from freezing this winter, be sure to have the coolant replaced with an antifreeze that's designed to provide protection from freezing temperatures.

If this will be your first winter driving in snow and ice, be sure that your car is ready for the weather change. The tips provided here will help you get your car ready for winter. For other tips on how to winterize your car, be sure to speak to your automotive specialist or click here for more info.