The plummeting temperatures and elements winter brings can be damaging to your car, from the paint job to the internal mechanics. A routine car tuneup is a simple way to get your car ready for winter, whether you’re worried about aesthetics or performance. To ensure your vehicle runs smoothly after Old Man Winter has moved on, utilize the following four tips.

How to Protect Your Automobile this Winter

1. Get a Car Tuneup

Whether it’s a low-pressure light for your tires or something is squeaking more than it used to, a car tuneup is an excellent way to care for your automobile during any season. During this evaluation, the professionals will be able to determine if there’s anything pressing that needs attention, or if it’s something simple like new tires to help your vehicle drive smoothly through the snow and sleet.

2. Keep Your Car Covered 

If you don’t have a garage or carport to protect your automobile from the winter elements, consider picking up a cover for the winter. A cover will prevent the excess moisture from damaging the paint on your vehicle, while it also reduces the wear and tear that incurs from scraping ice and snow off the windows.

3. Avoid Parking on the Street

Parking your car on the street leaves it vulnerable to a number of risks, including salt from trucks that can erode paint, plows that pile up large drifts of snow next to your automobile, and damage caused by other drivers slipping on the ice. To keep your vehicle in pristine shape, always opt to park in a driveway, garage, or carport.

4. Use a Thinner Oil

If your car is due for an oil change during winter, talk to your auto shop about using a thinner oil for the colder months, especially if your car will be sitting for periods of time. Declining temperatures can cause regular oil in your car to thicken and clog gears, which puts more strain on your battery and engine.

If you’re looking for a simple car tuneup to keep your vehicle running smoothly this winter, visit the technicians at Puma’s Auto Care in Brooklyn, NY. In addition to traditional preventative services, the mechanics at this shop offer repairs to ensure your car is running safe and sound. To learn more about the services they offer, visit them online or call (718) 272-6306.