With wintertime almost upon us, it can easily be forgotten that along with your home and yourself, your car also has specific needs. Every car owner knows the feeling of car trouble in the winter. No fun, right? Fortunately, there are many things that you can do that can prevent unnecessary hassles this season. A lot of our tips are so simple that you can get them done yourself and without the help of a mechanic, which means more money in your pocket! When looking for auto repair in Philadelphia, PA we are more than happy to get you on the right track!
Oil is Key
This is a really simple and easy preventative step to ensuring that your car runs as smoothly as possible this winter season. During the colder months, the oil in your car becomes thicker and it can affect how the oil flows throughout your car. Be sure to get an oil change before it begins to get cold out. Changing your oil to a thinner viscosity will also help your car run with fewer issues.
Check your Battery
It is important that you make certain that the contacts on your car battery are as clean as possible and free of any corrosion. Nobody wants to be left out in the cold in the middle of winter because of a faulty battery. If your car battery is more than four years old, then we highly recommend replacing it. Be sure to stop by an auto repair shop to have the health of your battery tested!
Inspect your Hoses and Belts
Colder weather means that the rubber on your hoses and belts is more prone to cracks, stretching, soft spots, bulges, and loose connections. Replace them if you find any issues and be sure to continue to inspect them throughout the season.
Replace Wiper Blades/Fluid
This is a very important step both for the well-being of your vehicle and also for your safety as a driver. Since rain and snow can easily impair your visibility when driving, it’s extremely essential that you make sure your wiper blades are not old or worn down. Ensure that you have an ample amount of wiper fluid and replace them yourself. This is a step that all car owners can easily tackle.
Having old and worn tires in snowy and icy conditions poses a serious hazard for both you and other drivers on the road. Tires in need of replacement begin to lose their tread even more so in the winter elements, so you definitely want to ensure that your tires have enough traction to keep you safe. We recommend replacing your tires with all-weather tires or snow tires if you plan on spending a lot of time in a mountainous region.
Our main goal is to ensure the absolute safety of you and your loved ones this wintertime season. When you are looking for auto repair in Philadelphia, PA we are here to help guide you through any and all seasons. Reach out today!