Vehicle maintenance is of critical importance during the winter due to cold weather risks and the strain that snow, ice, and low temperatures can place on your car. Regular care for your vehicle lowers the chance of a breakdown and extends the life of your motor throughout the season and beyond. The following are some best practices for ensuring your car runs through the winter.

Is Your Car Ready for Winter?

1. Keep Fluid & Fuel Tanks Full

While keeping fluid tanks full is an essential part of year-round vehicle maintenance, it becomes even more important during the winter. Use a coolant mixture of half antifreeze, half water to prevent engine components seizing up due to cold, and ensure that your oil has a ‘W’ in the viscosity index, signaling suitability for winter driving. Finally, keep the gas tank as close to full as you can. Not only will this help reduce the risk of running out while driving, but the gasoline can prevent ice from forming in the fuel pump.

2. Consider Mounting Winter Tires

When snow and ice layer the roads, traction becomes even more important than usual to avoid accidents. Tires that are worn bald are at greater risk of losing their grip and sending you off the road. To check whether it’s time for a new set of tires, insert a penny into the tread. If you can see the top of Lincoln’s head, your tires are too worn and should be replaced as soon as possible.

However, even new standard tires may not be able to grip winter roads as well as those made specifically for cold weather. Not only do these have tread patterns designed for and tested on snowy surfaces, but they’re made from special rubber compounds that remain flexible at low temperatures. No matter what type of tires you use, keep in mind that cold air will gradually lower the pressure in them, so check the pressure regularly and top up as needed.

3. Maintain the Battery

Your car’s battery is especially vulnerable to cold since low temperatures will reduce its power output. A battery that’s weak in warmer weather may stop working altogether in the winter. Before the cold weather sets in, have your battery’s power level tested and replace it if necessary to ensure your car will start in lower temperatures.

For help with winter vehicle maintenance, you can rely on Reffitt's Garage & Towing Service, Auto Body Repair, LLC in Hamilton, OH. For over four decades, they’ve offered towing services, repairs, and maintenance to drivers in the Cincinnati area. Their team of highly-trained technicians has the experience and equipment necessary to help you get back on the road this winter with expert services. To schedule assistance, call (513) 863-3008, or visit them online for further information.