Winterizing your car, simply put, refers to getting your vehicle in good shape for bad weather that could come up during a cold, winter season. When the question of taking care of our vehicle arises, we do not really bother about servicing the vehicle unless it starts having problematic issues.
What many do not often realize, though, is that maintaining any car includes inspecting all basic parts and systems, giving any needed ones the required service necessary to save you from huge repair costs later on, plus to help with the prevention of future breakdowns.
There are lots of things you can do on your own to help your vehicle run better, not necessarily requiring a mechanic or service technician. See what you think of the following.
How To Prepare Your Car For The Winter Season:
1. Road accidents during winter are the primary cause of death in our country. It is advisable that you prepare yourself with an emergency kit in case such a situation arises. You should keep a flashlight, blanket, radio, first aid kits, jumper cables, some food and water inside your car. In case your car is stuck, you will need some of these items to stay warm and secure.
2. In case of heavy snowstorms or blizzards, you should remain inside your car. Do not even try to head to the nearest location by traveling on foot. Get your vehicle off the road and signal with your hazard lights. The need to save fuel is crucial but so is the need to stay warm, both for you as well as the car. Turn on the car heater at least for ten to fifteen minutes every hour. You should put up signs of help. Tying a piece of red or white material and switching on the dome light inside the car will allow rescuers to notice that you are in need of assistance.
3. Getting your antifreeze level checked by a mechanic is a must to prevent the car from freezing arbitrarily.
4. Check your batteries and ignition system. The battery terminals should not be corroded.
5. Carbon monoxide is prone to leak out from the exhaust system. Make sure you check the system for any kind of leaks and crimps.
6. The rest of the car's parts should also be in proper working condition so have this check by a service technician.
7. Having good quality tires set in your car is absolutely necessary, especially if you happen to reside or travel regularly in winter weather prone areas. Installing weather radials should suffice.
8. Maintaining half a tank of gas is advisable. It is important that you have enough gas to be able to take your car to the next station to get a refill. When it comes to being stranded, the whole situation is completely unpredictable.
9. Have enough warm clothes on you whenever you are driving. You must be protected against the bitter cold.
It is always better to be safe than sorry. By being proactive and taking care of a few main issues regarding your vehicle, you may save yourself from unpleasant and life- threatening situations. Regardless of who does what, make sure you winterize your car and follow the above guidelines.
Winter and Car Trouble
People need to take extra care of vehicles during the winter season. This does not mean that the car does not need servicing the rest of the year. But cold winters can be particularly hazardous and difficult for both drivers and passengers, as well as for other vehicles and passengers, pedestrians and others out on the roadways. It is a good idea to get your car thoroughly checked before any ice, sleet and snow arrive.
For more car care and repair tips, head to the Auto Experts at: http://www.autoexpertscolumbus.com and check out the specials in their free newsletter issues while you're there!
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