Winterizing your vehicle

                         Week 2 (Save $2)

When it comes to winter in North America, Mother Nature is so unkind.  She had blasted us a few times with a little taste of winter last November and we are in for more cold and frigid temperatures and snow. 

Were we prepared with our cars? Or did we just procrastinate with winterizing our vehicles? We take our cars for granted and without a little care and attention, the last thing you need is to have your car break down with unexpected costly expenses and emergency expenses.
 
Invest that few hours to have your vehicle checked and it will give you that peace of mind of avoiding of being stranded out in the cold.

Here are some recommendations for winterizing your vehicle:

 

Get a tune up before the winter sets in.

 

Have your battery and charging system checked, cold weather is hard on batteries.

 

Clean, flush and put new antifreeze in the cooling system.  The rule of thumb, this should be done every two years.

 

Make sure heaters, wipers, defrosters are in working condition.  Winter blades are a better choice for the cold weather.  Wiper blades should be replaced every 6 months. Carry extra winter windshield fluids.

 

Have all your hoses and belts inspected.  Damage engine belts will not withstand extreme cold.

 

Check the tire tread depth and tire pressure. Have the tires rotated.  Consider getting winter tires for your vehicle.  During winter, check the tire pressure weekly.

 

Have the brakes checked as the braking system is the most important safety item.

 

Have the exhaust system checked for carbon monoxide leaks. Which is dangerous during the cold winter months for drives especially when all the windows are closed.

 

Make sure the exterior and interior lights are in working order and headlights are aimed properly.

 

Having your oil and filter changed is recommended.  Consider changing to winter weight oil if you live in a cold climate.  DO check all fuels levels, air and transmission filters at the same time.

 

Highly recommend having your gas tanks half full or filled to avoid chances of moisture forming in the gas lines and possible freezing. 

 

Check the spare tire to make sure there is pressure. 

 

Lastly prepare an Emergency kit in the event you find yourself stranded.  Have your cell phone, always have it charged up snowbrushes/ scrapers, small snow shovel, flash lights, flares, blankets, candles, matches, extra clothes, first aid kits, bottled water, dry food snacks (such as nuts, chocolate bars, crackers).

 

             Always be prepared and drive safely!