Whether we like it or not, winter weather will soon be upon us in Connecticut. While we rake the leaves, put away the garden tools and take out the snow shovels, it’s also important to pay attention to the vehicles that are going to get us through another northeastern winter. A vehicle in top running condition won’t refuse to start or break down, stranding you in the cold.
Have your oil changed. Bad weather could begin at any time, so fall is a good time to make sure your oil is fresh. Old oil can cause problems with your vehicle, and cold weather can compound them. While you’re at it, be sure to have the oil filter changed, as well.
Have your other filters changed, as well. It’s not only oil filters that will boost your car’s performance in the cold. Also consider changing your air, fuel, and PCV filters.
Change your wiper blades. Wiper blades have a knack of failing just when you need them the most: during a storm, for example. If your wiper blades are getting old, consider swapping them out for new ones in the fall so you’ll be sure to have a clear windshield during winter driving conditions. You may wish to choose winter-specific blades that can prevent ice and snow build-up on the windshield.
Check your tires. Poor tires are a hazard to you and other drivers year-round, but they’re particularly dangerous on cold, snowy or icy roads. Old tires can’t cope with these conditions, and they can compromise control of your vehicle, leading to accidents. Consider swapping your regular tires out for winter-specific snow tires.
Use fuel deicer to prevent ice in fuel lines. Winter temperatures can make cars harder to start, or even impossible to start if moisture in the fuel system freezes. To prevent this, you may wish to add gas-line antifreeze, an alcohol-based solution that can help keep the gas flowing in frigid temperatures. The next time you put gas in your vehicle, pour an entire bottle into your gas tank. It will sink to the bottom of the gas tank and absorb water, preventing moisture from entering your fuel system and freezing.
Check your vehicle’s lighting. The sun sets early in the winter, so we spend more time relying on our car’s lighting system. To maximize your safety, you'll want to do everything you can to make sure all your vehicle's lights are in excellent shape and anything that’s dim or burned out is replaced.
Make an appointment for your vehicle. Tire Country serves Connecticut customers with the type of seasonal preventive maintenance that keeps vehicles running smoothly in the winter cold. Customers in Enfield, Somers, Ellington and surrounding areas rely on us to keep their vehicles in tip-top shape during the cold winter months.
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