When winter approaches, it is important to prepare your vehicle for the changes in weather. Slippery roads and poor heating are only some of the worries car owners face. Think about some of these ways to get your car ready to avoid problems on the road.
Get Winter-Grade Motor Oil
One of the most important things you can do to prepare your car for winter is to switch out your regular motor oil for a winter-grade variety. Winter-grade oil is designed to operate in extremely cold temperatures, so it will not thicken and gum up the way regular motor oil does when the mercury drops. This can be invaluable in preventing prevent costly repairs further down the road.
Check Your Antifreeze Levels
Your car’s cooling system helps keep the engine from overheating, but it also prevents the water in the system from freezing. That is why it is important to make sure you have enough antifreeze, also called coolant, in your system. Aim for a 50/50 mix of water and antifreeze before winter hits. You can check your levels yourself using the reservoir tank under your hood; just make sure not to open it while the engine is hot. If it looks like you need more, you can usually buy premixed coolant at any auto parts store.
Inspect Your Windshield Wipers and Washer Fluid
Make sure your windshield wipers are in good condition and replace them if necessary; nothing is worse than being caught in a sudden snow squall with faulty wipers! You should also top off or replace your windshield washer fluid with a solution that will not freeze in cold weather; this will help keep your windshield clean and improve visibility while driving in winter weather conditions.
Invest in a Set of Winter Tires
While all-season tires are fine for most driving conditions, they do not offer the same level of grip and traction as winter tires do. If you live in an area that gets a lot of snow and ice, it is worth investing in a set of winter tires; they could mean the difference between getting where you’re going safely or being stranded on the side of the road. Nissan tires can be an excellent option for your vehicle if you are in the market for replacements.
Pay attention to the weather as you drive. No matter how well you prepare your vehicle for the winter, it is still vital for you to follow all of the appropriate rules of the road in order to minimize damage and injury.