Relentless flurries, freezing rain, rock-bottom temperatures – each and every one can put a wintry damper on vehicle performance. Before you trek around Grand Rapids and points nearby, make use of these cool winter car and truck care and maintenance tips.
- Regularly review light and bulb conditions. Winter days and evenings often contain the least light of the year. Repair any foggy or yellowing lights and clean any debris before either becomes an issue.
- Test vehicle battery operation. Cold weather means diminished operation, and even a weak battery is at risk of unforeseeable battery death, so if you need a new one, it's a good idea to replace it before it dies.
- Filling coolant regularly is key. Low coolant should be topped off ASAP, and make sure to keep an eye out for any breaks in your engine which could leak and cause the block to freeze.
- Gas up, and keep windshield washer fluid at the ready. Regularly refueling can help reduce the chance of a frozen fuel pump, and it's very useful to keep your engine running for cabin warmth in case you need to wait for assistance. Filling wiper fluid consistently helps ensure a clear view of outside conditions during weather that necessitates frequent wiper use.
- Invest in reliable snow tires. Tire flexibility means enhanced traction at low temperatures, and here, snow tires deliver. Keep tires properly pressurized and regularly examine pressure levels to help reduce wear and tear and prevent tread separation.
- Know the status of your defroster and climate controls. Warm vehicle interiors are self-explanatory, and when there's a storm on the radar, you'll want to keep windows free and clear of obstructions.
- Maintain an emergency survival kit. We've all been stranded at some point, even with our vehicles in proper order. Necessities like blankets, first-aid kits, utility knives, flashlights, jumper cables, mobile chargers, a shovel, de-icing spray and the like can help turn a bad situation into, at least, a tolerable one.
In need of some more vehicle care advice? Fox Hyundai is here to help. Feel free to get in touch with us on the Web, or to stop into our Grand Rapids, MI showroom today.
