With winter fast approaching, it’s a good idea to get your vehicle prepared for the cold weather to come. Without proper winterizing care and maintenance, your car might not hold up the way you expect it to. To protect your vehicle and keep it looking and running its best, follow these tips and techniques that are ideal for the Vancouver and Richmond weather.
Schedule a Tune-Up
It’s never fun to suffer a breakdown, but you certainly don’t want to be stranded on the icy roads in late December. A tune-up before the foul weather sets in can help you ward off car troubles before they can become major issues. Expect your mechanic to check your vehicle’s belts and antifreeze level. It’s a smart idea to ask your mechanic to flush your vehicle’s cooling system and replace its coolant.
Prevent Rust
Road salt and debris can wreak havoc with your car’s paint job and underbody. To better ward off rust, be sure to keep your car clean throughout the winter season. Also, before the roads get icy, you should give your vehicle a protective coat of wax to help keep its paint job looking its best.
Check the Battery
Did you know that extremely chilly temperatures can decrease your battery’s power by 50%? Along with autobody care, make sure that your battery is holding its charge and, if it’s old (5 years-plus), you might want to consider replacing it.
Check Tires
Before you go driving on wintry roads, be sure that your tires have good tread. Poor tire tread compromises safety. You may need to purchase tires that are ideal for driving on Vancouver’s roads. In addition, remember to check your tire pressure often as it will reduce as the temperature drops.
Windshield
The winter season and its storms can make for treacherous driving conditions. Be sure to replace your windshield wipers to ensure that they are ready for the long season ahead. In addition, you need to make certain that your windshield wiper fluid is also filled to the brim so you’ll have plenty available when you need it.
Brake Inspection
If you have any concerns about your brakes, be sure to have them inspected. During winter weather you need your brakes to be in optimum condition. It doesn’t take long to have your brakes checked, and the minor inconvenience will definitely enhance your safety.
Make Sure the Heat Works
Winters in Vancouver and Richmond can be chilly. You need to make sure your heat works before the cold weather sets in. Test it out before rough weather hits the region, and have your heater repaired if it is not working optimally.
Follow these tips to winterize your vehicle. Now is the perfect time to get your car ready for the cold weather to come.