Because your car is exposed to extreme conditions throughout the winter, this season can be particularly tough on it. To prevent breakdowns, accidents, and other inconvenient situations, the experts at Northwest Auto Parts recommend preparing your vehicle for the season. Based in Anchorage, AK, this local salvage yard shares a few tips to help you winterize your car this year.

Salvage Yard on How to Prepare Your Car for Winter

1. Check Tire Pressure

In areas with icy roads, tires should have the right amount of air pressure to ensure they can grip the road and handle such dangerous conditions. To check your pressure, use a gauge and compare the number with the manufacturer’s recommendations as listed on the driver side doorjamb. If the tires are underinflated, you’ll need to provide more air to ensure safe driving.

2. Change Oil

In lower temperatures, the oil in your vehicle becomes thicker and more viscous. As such, it is unable to circulate properly, and this can lead to numerous issues, such as engine damage. To avoid this problem, switch to winter-grade oil—such as 5W-30—at the beginning of the season. As a thinner substance, this type of oil can flow more easily in below-freezing temperatures to ensure your car functions properly.

3. Check the Heat

If you want to avoid suffering through freezing cold temperatures in your vehicle, it’s a good idea to check the heating system prior to the winter season. Your professional mechanics can assess the system and determine if it is functioning efficiently. If not, they’ll recommend specific maintenance services that will guarantee your heater can keep you warm all winter long.

4. Check the Windows

The only thing holding in your heat is the glass and your door seals. Double check your door and window seals. Seals not be brittle, cracked or missing. Test your window regulators by running the glass up and down, while listening for strain. Depress the defrost button to ensure the back window heating strips are warming up.  

5. Battery Power

Nothing works if the battery doesn’t. One cold night can kill a weak battery. A fully charged battery will discharge between 12.4 – 12.9 volts using a simple voltage tester. All qualitymechanical shops can load test your battery to ensure your car starts every morning.

Preparing your vehicle for the harsh Alaska winter is critical in ensuring the car will continue to operate reliably. And if you need to replace any components with used car parts, turn to the experts at Northwest Auto Parts. Serving the community since 1955, this salvage yard is committed to providing the best service at the lowest prices. Having obtained the highest rating from United Recycling Group, they’re also dedicated to recycling 99% of the vehicle components that come through their facility. Call them today at (800) 770-6531. You can also like them on Facebook for the latest updates.