Should You Winterize A New Car?
If you bought a new car before 1980, winterizing it was necessary to keep it running in tip top shape throughout the winter.
Today, it’s a different story. New vehicles don’t require extensive winterizing to perform at their best. You can thank advanced auto technology which allows a vehicle to start right up even in the coldest weather with no special care.
However, there are still a few simple tasks you should do before Old Man Winter makes an appearance.
Check Your Battery
Cold weather is hard on a car battery.
The chemical reactions necessary to generate your battery’s power slow down in very cold temperatures. Plus, cold weather means your engine needs more current from the battery to start the vehicle.
Have your mechanic or the certified Chevy service technicians at Joe Bowman Auto Plaza check your battery. They’ll run a battery load test to see if your battery is still strong.
If the battery is good to go, they will clean up any corrosion found on the posts and connections.
Change Wiper Blades. Refill Wiper Fluid
In inclement weather, it’s essential that you can see the road. That’s why you need fully functioning wiper blades and a solid supply of windshield wiper fluid.
Wiper blades are generally good for one year. If yours are looking frayed or worn, change them!
Check Tire Pressure
Check tires to make sure they are properly inflated. For every 10 degree drop in temperature, your tire's air pressure will drop about 1 psi (pounds per square inch). A properly inflated tire makes the best contact with the road. That’s essential for wintry weather conditions.
Got 4-Wheel Drive? Check It!
Get better traction on icy or snowy roads with 4-wheel drive. Just don’t wait until it’s snowing to check that it’s working correctly. Get your mechanic to ensure that the system engages as it should.
Also, make sure the transmission and gear fluids are at their proper levels.
Anti-Freeze
The mix of water and anti-freeze should be about 50/50 to prevent the radiator coolant from freezing. You can pick up an inexpensive antifreeze tester at your local car parts store and check it for yourself. It’s easy to do.
Change Oil and Adjust Viscosity
The colder it gets, the thicker oil becomes. Thick oil doesn’t circulate well through the engine. That’s why you want to switch it out in the winter to a thinner oil. To know what oil you need for winter, check your owner’s manual.
Check Belts and Hoses
Check belts and hoses for signs of wear and tear. If needed replace. You don’t need your car breaking down in cold weather due to a $10 belt.
And lastly, make sure your car is stocked with emergency supplies. This is a good idea any time of the year. Be prepared all year long!
When you’re ready to buy a new car, look no further than Joe Bowman Chevy and Cadillac new cars sales in Harrisonburg, VA. We’ve been keeping customers happy for 60+ years.
Today, it’s a different story. New vehicles don’t require extensive winterizing to perform at their best. You can thank advanced auto technology which allows a vehicle to start right up even in the coldest weather with no special care.
However, there are still a few simple tasks you should do before Old Man Winter makes an appearance.
Check Your Battery
Cold weather is hard on a car battery.
The chemical reactions necessary to generate your battery’s power slow down in very cold temperatures. Plus, cold weather means your engine needs more current from the battery to start the vehicle.
Have your mechanic or the certified Chevy service technicians at Joe Bowman Auto Plaza check your battery. They’ll run a battery load test to see if your battery is still strong.
If the battery is good to go, they will clean up any corrosion found on the posts and connections.
Change Wiper Blades. Refill Wiper Fluid
In inclement weather, it’s essential that you can see the road. That’s why you need fully functioning wiper blades and a solid supply of windshield wiper fluid.
Wiper blades are generally good for one year. If yours are looking frayed or worn, change them!
Check Tire Pressure
Check tires to make sure they are properly inflated. For every 10 degree drop in temperature, your tire's air pressure will drop about 1 psi (pounds per square inch). A properly inflated tire makes the best contact with the road. That’s essential for wintry weather conditions.
Got 4-Wheel Drive? Check It!
Get better traction on icy or snowy roads with 4-wheel drive. Just don’t wait until it’s snowing to check that it’s working correctly. Get your mechanic to ensure that the system engages as it should.
Also, make sure the transmission and gear fluids are at their proper levels.
Anti-Freeze
The mix of water and anti-freeze should be about 50/50 to prevent the radiator coolant from freezing. You can pick up an inexpensive antifreeze tester at your local car parts store and check it for yourself. It’s easy to do.
Change Oil and Adjust Viscosity
The colder it gets, the thicker oil becomes. Thick oil doesn’t circulate well through the engine. That’s why you want to switch it out in the winter to a thinner oil. To know what oil you need for winter, check your owner’s manual.
Check Belts and Hoses
Check belts and hoses for signs of wear and tear. If needed replace. You don’t need your car breaking down in cold weather due to a $10 belt.
And lastly, make sure your car is stocked with emergency supplies. This is a good idea any time of the year. Be prepared all year long!
When you’re ready to buy a new car, look no further than Joe Bowman Chevy and Cadillac new cars sales in Harrisonburg, VA. We’ve been keeping customers happy for 60+ years.
