Share:

While the lower 48 may be seeing the first signs of spring, Alaska residents still have a few months of freezing weather to deal with. Although you may be well versed in how to safely drive in snowy weather, the team at Professional Automotive in Anchorage notes this doesn’t mean you can neglect winter vehicle maintenance. Following a few best practices is essential for keeping your vehicle running smoothly until the warmer weather returns.

Standard Maintenance

Basic vehicle maintenance tasks may not seem urgent, but they can make all the difference during the winter months. In addition to switching to snow tires, drivers should routinely check their battery condition and fluid levels. Freezing temperatures put extra strain on your battery, while non-winter-rated oil or coolant could freeze and hurt the engine’s performance.

vehicle maintenanceBy routinely checking the condition of your tires, battery, and fluids during the winter months, you’ll take care of any needed upkeep tasks before they make it dangerous to drive in snowy conditions.

Keeping It Clean

In addition to keeping up on scheduled maintenance, vehicle cleaning should also be a top priority. The salt used to keep the roadways clear can easily get caught on the underside of your vehicle, where it will eat away at the paint and metal. Left in place for too long, this could easily result in rust and corrosion.

A pre-winter wax is a good start for cold weather protection, but you should regularly wash your vehicle after driving in icy or snowy conditions. Power wash the underside as well to remove ice and grime.

If you need to give your car a winter tuneup, don’t wait to visit Professional Automotive. Their friendly, ASE-certified mechanics have served the Anchorage area for over 25 years, providing trustworthy services to drivers in need. To learn more about their vehicle maintenance offerings, visit them online or call (907) 562-2471.

tracking