The Wrath of Winter Can Create Some Nasty Transportation Issues

Winter usually means cold and wet weather as well as snow falls and ice storms. Trying to determine whether winter is going to be a lion or a lamb is a full time job for weatherman, but there are steps to make winter a little less threatening regardless of its intensity when it comes to automobile use. The wrath of winter can create some nasty transportation issues if you think your car will maintain itself.

The dog days of summer can cause damage to engine hoses and other engine parts and that damage may not cause drivers any inconvenience until the weather changes. The first signs of winter should be a signal to winterize your car so it functions like new. Winterizing your car doesn’t just mean having enough antifreeze in your radiator and changing the oil every three thousand miles.

There are several other important steps to follow when winterizing your car. The first thing to do is to develop a winter checklist that includes keeping the engine running at full power. Safety features and the electrical system should also be on the list.

A Winter Checklist Should Start With Tire and Battery Inspection as Well as Antifreeze Protection

Most drivers either check their antifreeze or have someone check it for them when the oil is changed, but they never take the time to clean battery posts or check the tread on tires. There are several items that should be included on a car maintenance winter checklist. Every item on this list is important, but some items are ignored because of expense and convenience issues. That kind of thinking can create some major winter car problems.

Inspect all four tires for wear. The safety board recommends 2/32" depth for maximum safety; anything less than that is risky especially in winter.

The water to antifreeze ratio should be 50/50. Have it checked at a service centre or do it yourself with a cheap tester.

It’s easy to forget about windshield wipers until you need them. Wipers are essential tools for safety and they should be replaced twice a year.

Windshield wiper fluid is another hidden necessity that is overlooked until its needed. Make sure the reservoir is filled with washer fluid not water.

Spark plug wires and engine hoses should be checked for cracks and leaks. Cold weather will bring out the worst in your car’s engine when hoses or wires need to be replaced.

Checking engine oil is routine for most people. Oil should be changed once a month in winter.

Checking the brakes shouldn’t be the last thing on a winter checklist. The brakes and the tires share the number one ranking on a winter checklist.