Winterizing Your Engine and Brakes

With the different climate changes, it is important to have your car inspected for the winter months.  There are several steps you can take in preventing major car problems with the proper inspection and maintenance.  

Importance of Recognizing Car Problems

To avoid being stranded in cold climates, it is important to become aware of the signs, lights and notifications of your car.  Education starts with teenagers learning about prevention of car problems by checking the tire pressure, monitoring the engine temperature, fluids and oil as well as servicing the car as soon as the check engine light appears.  Car maintenance can be an expensive cost for anyone, but proper inspection and maintenance can reduce the amount of problems with your vehicle in the future.

Inspection of Brakes and Engine

Before the winter season starts, your brakes, radiator, lights and engine should be inspected to protect you from inclement weather.  Wherever you take your car for inspection or repair, verify the company has ASE master technicians that are familiar with various car makes and models for better analysis of your car performance.  Basic functions of your car such as working brakes, car temperature regulation, and proper steering and suspension should always be inspected annually; especially in winter months.  The typical inspection for winterizing your vehicle includes adding antifreeze to your heating system for colder temperatures.  Depending on your geographical location, winter snow tires may be a necessary addition to your car and a tire inspection to monitor the air pressure is needed for certain weather conditions.  The dangers of rain, snow and sleet will also require inspection of your windshield wiper blades to make sure the rubber is not worn to protect your visibility.  A technician should also complete a fluids check of your windshield wiper fluid, water, antifreeze levels and your oil types.  Your battery should also be inspected to make sure there is no corrosion and has full charging capability if you need to jumpstart your car.  Any engine repair needs to be completed immediately because maintenance delays can create more damage to a car if repairs are neglected until later months.    

Winter Safety Kits

Being stranded in the cold weather can be an inconvenience for anyone, but you may have to help someone struggling with their own car problems.  You may want to include a winter safety kit in your car that includes a flashlight to see in dark conditions, jumper cables to charge the battery if it dies and warm clothes if you cannot get the car running.  You will also need tools to work on a car engine and a windshield ice scraper to remove access snow and ice from your windows.  There are several online sites you can review for tips on essentials for winter car kits for your safety.  If you take proper care of your car year-round, you should require less overall maintenance and maintain proper function.  If your car breaks down, you can always get help from AAA or the emergency roadside assistance service provided by your insurance company, you chose that option.  You may also consider carrying flares in your winter safety kit if you happen to travel in rural areas often.  Taking the proper precautions to winterize your car does not guarantee a problem-free vehicle, but it will help you to be prepared in case of emergency.