How to Care for your Car in the Winter

Cold winter temperatures do more damage than drying out your skin! When the temperatures plummet, it is extremely common for car damage and issues to increase a significant amount. Following the right steps to care for your car in the winter can help to prevent issues and keep your vehicle operating smoothly. If you run into a problem with your vehicle this winter, you should consult with our experts at Layton Car Care for thorough guidance and assistance. Here are a few ways that you can care for your car in the winter months.

Check on your Battery

It is useful to ensure that you are aware of the condition of your battery before the temperatures get too cold. In the winter months, the cold temperatures can easily lead to a dead battery. Check on your battery and ensure that it is in good condition. You also need to make sure that you keep an emergency kit inside of your car, including jumper cables.

Thoroughly Clear Windows and Windshield

It is easy to assume that your defrost will quickly clear off your windshield when you are running late. However, operating a vehicle with limited visibility is incredibly dangerous. It is important to take a few minutes to effectively and thoroughly clear all of your windows and windshield of snow and frost before driving. Using a spray bottle filled with rubbing alcohol can help to expedite your window clearing process.

Drive Cautiously

Winter weather leads to hazardous road conditions. It is important to drive cautiously and carefully when you are facing these conditions. This can help to prevent accidents and keep you safe on the road.

Examine your Tires

The tread of your tires will often impact how effectively your car performs in the snow. When your tread is very worn down, you should probably have the tires replaced before driving in the snow. You will also want to consider the use of snow tires to further improve the performance of your car in snowy conditions.

Check for Cracks

Cracks tend to grow substantially during the winter, because water can make its way between the cracks, freeze, and expand. This forces the cracks to grow wider to accommodate the water. Having cracks repaired before they spread is often much more effective than having them repaired when they’ve grown much larger.

Start Car Regularly

Issues can occur with your vehicle when you allow it to sit too long in cold temperatures. The battery may die or the fluid can freeze. By starting your car regularly, generally once a week, and driving it for a little while, you can help to prevent some of these major issues from arising.

Check on your Antifreeze

It can be especially important to ensure that your antifreeze is at sufficient levels during the winter months. This can help to minimize problems with the other fixtures of your vehicle. Antifreeze is essential when you live in climates that get extremely cold during the winter.

Keep an Eye on Tire Pressure

Winter temperatures can cause tire pressure fluctuations. Not only can this make the tires unsafe to drive on, but it can also mask issues that may not necessarily be caused by the temperature. It is important to ensure that you keep an eye on the pressure of your tires to enable you to drive safely.

Check on your Windshield Wipers

Windshield wipers often need to be replaced more frequently than most people realize. In fact, a windshield wiper can begin to be less effective in as little as 6 months. It is important to check on your windshield wipers and ensure that they are functioning effectively. Check on the blades and ensure that they are operating as they are intended.

Keep Clean

Salt, grime, snow, and other debris can easily accumulate on your car during the winter months. While most people don’t think much about washing their car when it is so cold outside, this can actually be a beneficial step in protecting your vehicle. By removing these various substances, you can prevent them from causing damage to your car and the coat of paint on its surface.

Our team at Layton Car Care can provide the necessary services to help you keep your car in good condition this winter. From preparing for winter to providing the appropriate repairs, we have the services that you may need. To learn more about keeping your car in good shape over the winter, contact us at Layton Car Care today!