Winter Car Care is Important You and Your Car!
Where's some of the things you can do to prevent Problems along Winter Roads.
Winter in Manville, NJ Photo by Premiere Media.biz
Read your owner’s manual & follow manufacturer’s recommended service schedules.
Emergencies—The Winter Cold can be Unforgiving in case of an Accident or a total Vehicle shutdown, like a dead battery, so carry gloves, boots, blankets, flares, a small shovel, sand or kitty litter, tire chains, a flashlight, and a cell phone. Pack a few “high-energy” snacks.
Fuel—Put a bottle of fuel de-icer in your tank once a month to help keep moisture from freezing in the fuel line. Also try to keep the gas tank filled, it helps prevent moisture from forming.
Cooling System—The cooling system should be flushed and refilled as recommended. The level, condition, and concentration of the coolant should be checked periodically. (A 50/50 mix of anti-freeze and water is usually recommended.) Please be careful, never remove the radiator cap until the engine has thoroughly cooled! The tightness and condition of drive belts, clamps, and hoses should be checked by the Nerger's Auto Express pros.Battery—The only accurate way to detect a weak battery is with professional equipment. Routine care: Scrape away corrosion from posts and cable connections; clean all surfaces; re-tighten all connections. If battery caps are removable, check fluid level monthly. Just be reallycareful: Removal of cables can cause damage or loss of data/codes on some newer vehicles. Check your manual. Be sure to avoid contact with corrosive deposits and battery acid. Wear eye protection and rubber gloves.Oil—Change your oil and oil filter as specified in your manual—more often if your driving is mostly stop-and-go or consists of frequent short trips. At Nerger's Auto Express we know that regular oil and filter changes is one of the most frequently neglected services, we see that way to often yet we all know that is essentialto the protectionof any engine.
Heater/Defroster—The heater and defroster must be in good working condition for passenger comfort and driver visibility. Windshield Wipers—Replace old blades. If your climate is really bad like, purchase rubber-clad (winter) blades to fight ice build-up. Stock up on windshield washer solvent—you’ll be surprised how much you use.
Carry an ice-scraper.
Lights—Inspect all lights and bulbs; replace burned out bulbs; periodically clean road grime from all lenses. To prevent scratching, never use a dry rag. A car must not only run great , it must also look great!
Tires—Worn tires will be of little use in winter weather. Examine tires for remaining tread life, uneven wearing, and cupping; check the sidewalls for cuts and nicks. Check tire pressure once a month. Let the tires “cool down” before checking the pressure. Rotate as recommended. Don’t forget your spare, and be sure the jack is in good condition.
Car Money Saving Tips: Under-inflated tires or poorly aligned wheels makes your engine work harder and thus use excess gasoline. Also have your brakes checked periodically for safety and to prevent costly repairs that can be caused by neglect.
Transmission—Often neglected until a major failure, routine checks and fluid changes at prescribed intervals can prevent very costly repairs down the line.
Stay Save and Enjoy the Road.
