As temperatures drop, your vehicle requires different maintenance than in the summertime. Glen's Precision Auto, the premier auto repair shop in Saint Cloud, MN, offers some suggestions below to help you prepare your car for winter. These five tips should help keep your vehicle in good shape and avoid the need for expensive repairs.

5 Important Winter Car Care Tips

1. Flush & Fill Coolant

Have your cooling system flushed to get rid of any contaminants. It should then be filled with an appropriate solution of antifreeze. This lets the engine shed excess heat while operating but prevents the coolant from freezing while the car is idle.

2. Check Battery

Have your battery checked for its ability to hold a charge. As batteries age, they can lose their charge in cold weather. This could leave you stranded and unable to start your vehicle. A good auto repair shop will check the battery and determine whether you need a replacement. 

3. Get Winter Tires

Minnesota gets considerable snowfall, so it's wise to consider tire replacement when the seasons change. Winter tires have bigger treads to handle snowy roads, and they're made of softer rubber that remains pliable—and better adheres to the road—in cold weather.

4. Schedule Oil Change

Oil changes are important year round, but the cold weather introduces new factors to consider. Some manufacturers recommend you use a different viscosity of engine oil in colder temperatures. Less viscous oil flows more easily in winter and can better lubricate your engine before it warms up fully.

5. Add Fuel De-icer

Fuel de-icer removes the moisture from your tank and gas lines. This is crucial in winter, when this moisture could freeze and interfere with your vehicle's ability to run properly.

To schedule the above auto maintenance tasks, contact Glen's Precision Auto. They serve drivers throughout Saint Cloud and the surrounding areas. Their experienced technicians provide top-notch work and exceptional customer service. Check out their website for a map and business hours, or call (320) 251-4910 to schedule an appointment.