One of the benefits of having a car is the reliability and freedom it provides. That freedom goes out the window, though, when you wake up in the morning to go to work and find your car won’t start because the battery died or the doors are frozen shut.
To maintain dependability, even in the wintertime, here are some tips to follow:
- If your battery is getting old, replace it. Cold weather kills a battery quickly and efficiently.
- Check your tire pressure regularly. Air compresses in cold temperatures and rubber expands, which means your tires will lose pressure quickly in the wintertime. This wastes more gas, puts you at risk of getting a flat tire, and increases the chances of sliding on slick surfaces.
- Keep your gas tank at least half full at all times in case of emergency.
- Leave windshield wipers sticking up when parking outdoors. This stops them from freezing to your windshield.
- Fill your windshield wiper fluid reservoir. Salt and sand from roads can cake on your windshield, lowering visibility anytime you are driving.
- Wash salt off your car regularly, as it can damage the exterior of your vehicle, but do not allow water from a wash to freeze on your car. Make sure to leave your vehicle in a warm, sheltered area until the water evaporates.
- Waxing your car before winter can help protect the exterior, as well. Use a polymer wax to protect your car from ice, salt, snow, sleet, and more.
- Use a high-pressure washer to clean underneath wheel wells, the underbody of your car, and other hard to reach areas to remove grime buildup.
- Replace old tires before road conditions get bad. Consider replacing your tires specifically with winter tires for the season. Low tread leads to less traction on the roads.
- Have all your car’s fluids topped off and replace damaged parts before winter.
Winter weather can be very harsh in Chicago. Auto parts, such as tires and batteries, should be replaced before cold temperatures and nasty weather take a toll on your vehicle. If you are looking for a reliable Chicago auto parts store, look no further than New Cats Auto Parts. We are here to make sure you stay safe this winter season.