All posts tagged maintenance

Winter Warning: 3 Tire Tips To Prepare You For The Upcoming Season

by Anica Oaks on 2017/09/27 in Auto Maintenance with Comments Off on Winter Warning: 3 Tire Tips To Prepare You For The Upcoming Season

Before the snow and ice of the winter season arrive, you need to take the necessary steps to get your car in order. There are fluids that you need to check to ensure that they are at the proper levels and electrical components that need to operate as they should, such as the battery and alternator. The tires of the car are very important in the winter, sometimes more important than other parts because they can help to keep you from sliding around if you’re driving on slick roads. There are a few tips to keep in mind before winter so that the tires are in good condition.

Check The Tread

An important feature of the tires is the tread. If your tires have been rotated regularly and properly inflated, then there will be even wearing on the exterior of them. This would mean that the tread should be even on each tire. If one or more tires has tread that is lower than the others, it is usually a sign that the car needs an alignment or that the tires need balanced. You need to get this taken care of as soon as possible before getting new tires put on the car for winter. Snow tires are an option as they have more tread than a traditional tire.

Tire Pressure

In the winter, the pressure in the tires will sometimes decrease because of the colder air. Check the tire pressure on a regular basis. If you see that one tire or more are losing air pressure at a faster rate than the other tires, then you need to see if there is anything stuck in the rubber. Keeping your tires inflated to the proper level will help to extend the life of them, and it can also keep you safe on the road. If you have tires with low pressure, then you risk sliding around more on the road.

Add Chains

An option that you have if you live in an area that sees a lot of snow and ice is to put chains on the tires. The chains will provide the added traction needed while you’re driving. Some snow tires have chains already on them. Make sure you take the chains off when driving in normal weather conditions. A professional company like Evans Tire can usually add chains for you and check the other features as well.

Your tires are an important part of the car. When winter arrives, there will be changes that you might notice. Check the pressure, tread and other aspects of the tires so that you’re safe while driving.

Snow Approaches: 4 Winter Weather Checks for Your Car

by Anica Oaks on 2015/11/04 in Auto Care with Comments Off on Snow Approaches: 4 Winter Weather Checks for Your Car

Before winter weather and heavy snows hit, it is vital for automobile owners to check some things on their vehicles. By being prepared, drivers can prevent a breakdown in frigid temperatures. Many automobile products can be purchased ahead of time to fit into any budget.

Coolant and Windshield Washer Fluid Levels

Checking the fluid levels of the coolant and in the washer bottle is an important part of maintaining a vehicle for winter. Antifreeze may not sound important, but it is the fluid that keeps a vehicle cool. An automobile can overheat in the winter without proper coolant levels, which can lead to catastrophic engine failure.

Tires

Every driver should regularly check their tire pressure and the tread level on their tires. A low tire can not only cause more fuel to be consumed, but it can also cause a vehicle to slide on ice more easily. It is easier to get an under-inflated tire stuck in deep snow.

Restock Emergency Kit

The U.S. Government suggests that one of the most important things that drivers can do is to prepare their emergency road kit with items needed for snow and ice. Adding a bag of sand and salt to the car can help when getting stuck in the ice or heavy snow. A shovel, warm clothing, extra blankets, and food rations are other items that should always be in an emergency kit during the winter.

Hoses and Belts

Hoses and belts can easily rip or break from dry rot. The cold temperatures of winter make it more difficult for hoses and belts to maintain their shape because of contraction during freezing temperatures. Any hairline cracks, bulges, or weak spots will burst or rip when the temperatures drop and the snow flies.

Windshield Wipers

Every driver wants to maintain clear vision while they are driving. Regularly replacing windshield wipers by purchasing them at a local store (including with coupons for Sears.com) is a huge part of keeping a good view. Drivers should think about replacing their wipers every fall to make sure they have excellent visibility when the weather turns cold.

Battery

A car or truck battery is stressed to the max when the temperatures drop. The cold can zap the energy in a battery quicker than anything else. Drivers should always make sure the terminals are clean and free of corrosion before the snow hits.

Getting a vehicle ready for snowy weather is a simple process as long as the driver follows the above strategies. Keeping a car or truck prepared for winter is a crucial part of being safe. Many products can be purchased ahead of time like windshield wipers and coolant.