The weather is starting to act much more like winter, is your car ready? Proper maintenance during the cold harsh winter months can really help preserve your vehicle investment. The International Carwash Association has put together a list of eight tips for you to keep your vehicle in good condition. WaterSavers also offers tips on saving water during the process of keeping your car clean. These tips will ensure a safer ride in the short term and a higher resale or trade-in value down the road.
1. A clean car is your first line of defense against winter. Getting a new wash and a fresh coat of wax before the temperature starts to fluctuate can be instrumental in protecting your car against winter elements like ice, salt, sand, and slush. Even getting some extra protection for your car by using Premier Eco Steam paint protection, for example, may be a good idea in order to offer you some peace of mind when it comes to the chips and damage that your car may experience on the winter roads.
Auto corrosion also occurs most quickly when temperatures rise and then fall below freezing. That’s why most auto manufacturers recommend getting your car washed and waxed at a professional car wash twice a month, especially during the winter.
Using a WaterSavers Car Wash is a strong first step towards ensuring that your car will be ready to withstand the winter elements – inside and out. It’s also a great way to protect the environment. For example, these car washes typically use only 40 gallons (151.5 liters) or less of fresh water per car wash. Learn more and find a WaterSavers wash at Washwithwatersavers.com.
2. Rotate your tires. Most people know they should get their oil changed every 3,000 miles, but many forget their tires need maintenance as well. Tires should be rotated before winter and then again every 6,000 miles.
3. Add some winter weight to your oil. Changing your oil and filter is especially important during the winter. Drivers who live in a colder climate should consider changing to heavier, winter-weight oil during the winter months.
4. Take care of your wiper blades. This is a biggie for me – you have to be able to see to drive. Your windshield wiper blades are your first line of defense when the snow starts to fly. Make sure your wiper blades are in good, working order and replace them if you have doubts. It’s better to make this change now instead of finding out your blades aren’t working when you really need them.
5. Take your car in for a tune-up. Any noises, pings or sluggish starts you currently notice will only intensify as the temperature drops. It’s best to get your vehicle in for a tune-up as soon as possible to get any issues addressed.
6. Give your steering some power. Check your powering steering fluid each month, and make sure the car is warmed up before you do so. If you find the level is low, look for leaks in the hoses or pump. Low power steering fluid will make your car more difficult to steer, which is something you’ll want to avoid as the roads get slick.
7. Protect yourself from carbon monoxide. Carbon monoxide leaks are dangerous at any time, but they are especially deadly during the winter when you will be driving your vehicle with the windows closed. Have your exhaust system checked to make sure no leak exists.
8. Apply the brakes. Besides the seatbelt, your car’s brakes are its most important safety feature. This is especially true in the winter when slippery conditions can make stopping difficult. Before the first snow fall, bring your car to an experienced mechanic to verify that your brakes are ready for the season.
Cold winter temperatures mean vehicle maintenance is even more important. By following these simple tips listed above, you’ll be able to ward off winter’s harshest advances, protect your investment and those who ride inside of it.
To learn more about protecting the value of your vehicle, visit Washwithwatersavers.com.
Now for the giveaway! One lucky Detroit Mommies reader will wint the following prize pack:
Prize Pack Details:
WaterSavers has created a prize package to help you feel prepared for winter. You and one of your readers (we will ship directly to your giveaway winner) will receive:
o Thermal travel mug
o Fleece travel blanket
o Hand Mitt ice scraper
o $30 VISA Gift Card
Use the easy Rafflecopter entry from below to enter the giveaway!
