By Martin Banks
Ice, snow and colder temperatures are the hallmarks of traditional winters. The season’s arrival means it is time to change your car maintenance strategies. Your sedan, truck or SUV requires special attention and as much care as it gets in the summer.
Here are five things you should do to keep your car running smoothly when it is cold out.
1. Use a Block Heater
Freezing temperatures in the morning could lead to ice on your windshield and cold starts for your engine. Frigid conditions mean your motor must work harder to crank because the battery has less electricity. If you wait for the car to warm up, you could risk being late for work. The average commute is 26.8 minutes in America, so you might not want to wait that long.
Block heaters are viable for these situations because they keep your engine warm even when you turn off the car. The oil also stays heated and effortlessly flows through your motor, making cold starts easier when the temperatures are low. Block heaters can be a worthwhile investment in the long run, considering they reduce wear on your engine and battery.
2. Check Your Fluid Levels
Your oil and fluid levels matter year-round, although your priorities may shift once the weather gets colder. For example, you should prioritize your coolant levels and what the ratio to water should be. Check the owner’s manual for your make and model’s recommendations, although you should anticipate a 50-50 split.
Another winter maintenance task should be to check your oil. Your engine could have trouble starting if it becomes too thick, so you may need a different blend. Consider oil with a thinner viscosity for the winter because it flows more efficiently throughout the engine and lubricates the moving parts. Your owner’s manual should tell you the minimum viscosity for the car, so remember the oil grade before buying.
3. Regulate Your Garage Temperature
Garages are among the best winter maintenance strategies because they shield your car from the elements. These home attachments also let you work on projects or hobbies and worry less about the cold weather. However, the garage could be less effective and increase heating needs if it does not have proper insulation.
Experts say American households spend over $2,000 annually on energy bills, with 30% allocated for heating. Homeowners should inspect the garage for air leaks, especially around the door and windows. Fixing leaks involves adding insulation, implementing draft stoppers, or caulking the doors and windows to reduce heat loss.
4. Protect Your Car From Pests
Humans are not the only ones looking for warmth and shelter when colder temperatures arrive. Rodents and other animals could slip through tiny cracks and determine your car is the best hiding place. Once inside, they may chew on cables and cause expensive damage. Therefore, you should protect your vehicle proactively before the worst cold weather.
Your first plan should be to clean the car and remove anything that may attract pests. Collect empty cans, wrappers or loose cords because they could produce foul smells and provide nesting places. Next, use repellents to deter rodents from entering your vehicle. Use cotton balls with peppermint oil or cinnamon aromas because rats and mice find them unpleasant.
5. Get a Windshield Cover
Your car needs alternative winter protection measures if you can’t store it in a garage. Heavy snowfall or ice could damage your windshield, so getting a windshield cover is wise. These glass shields readily hook around the mirrors and protect your vehicle from chips and large cracks.
If you do not want to clean the windshield cover often, get one made from polyester because it resists moisture well. These covers also benefit drivers by blocking harmful sunlight. While UV rays are more prominent in the summer, experts say they still pose risks in the winter. A cover can protect your dashboard from fading colors caused by sun exposure.
Protecting Your Car From Old Man Winter
While cold weather can bring your favorite holidays, it can spell trouble for your vehicle. Frigid temperatures and precipitation harm your car’s interior and exterior if you do not take the necessary precautions. Your battery and engine should top your maintenance list, although it is essential to remember minor details like garage temperature. Take these steps to help your ride survive the snowy season.
Martin Banks is the Founder and Editor-in-Chief of Modded. He covers the world of cars, driving, tech, and more.
Editor’s Note: The thoughts and opinions expressed in this article are solely those of the author and do not necessarily reflect the views or positions of the National Motorists Association.
