While driving through winter wonderlands provides a beautiful view, cold conditions are no friend to your car. Many issues arise in winter, such as thickened oil, balding tires, and a weak battery. Below, review a few steps that auto mechanics recommend to winterize your vehicle.

5 Vehicle Winterization Tips From Auto Mechanics

1. Check & Top Off Fluids

Have all car fluids checked for quality and leaks, including the motor oil, transmission fluid, brake fluid, coolant, and windshield wiper fluid. Cold weather causes these fluids to harden, especially when they’re dirty from road dust and metal shards, among other contaminants. Help your engine and transmission operate efficiently with fresh fluid.

2. Inspect the Battery

Ask your auto mechanic to check your battery terminal for corrosion and power issues. Clean the terminal of corrosion and replace the battery if it is over four years old to prevent breakdowns.

3. Examine Tires

Use a pressure gauge to check your tires, because they deflate as the temperature drops. Fill your tires based on the recommendation in your owner’s manual. If you live in a particularly snowy region, consider switching to winter or snow tires. Also, replace them if the tread is too worn to stay safe on the changing road conditions.

4. Replace Wiper Blades

Check your wiper blades for wear and ask your auto mechanic to replace them if they’re over a year old. Quality, high-functioning wiper blades prevent serious visibility issues if you are in a winter storm while driving.

5. Fill the Gas Tank

Maintain a relatively full gas tank at all times to avoid breakdowns in frigid temperatures and minimize condensation. Moisture accumulation in your gas tank can cause water to enter the fuel lines and freeze, shutting your car off.

Work with the auto mechanics at Gearheads Auto Service in Cuyahoga Falls, OH, to prepare your car for winter. The RepairPal®-certified shop has served the region for 11 years, providing work on all makes and models from ASE-certified technicians, including performance and classic car services. Call (330) 929-0200 to make an appointment today or visit the website for service details.