Don’t let the cold weather damage your valuable vehicle!
When the colder months arrive, you need to take extra precautions to keep your car safe. If you aren’t sure where to start, read on to learn four essential care tips for your vehicle in the winter.
Cars should get you from point A to point B without a hitch. The winter weather brings new complications that might prevent your vehicle from functioning. If you’re concerned about knowing how to care for your car during the winter, don’t panic! You’ll be an expert in no time.
Allow the Engine To Warm Up
Your body trembles in cold weather, and you need extra layers and time to warm up. Think of your car’s engine the same way!
Warming up the engine before driving allows the engine’s fluids to start flowing, lubricating the engine with oil. When you don’t give your vehicle time to warm up, you risk damaging the engine’s pistons. Find a happy medium that works for you!
The minimum amount of time you should wait before driving is 1 minute. Some drivers like to wait even longer, often for up to 10 minutes, to warm up the interior.
Keep the Coolant Full
Most people think about coolant in the summer months because it prevents the engine from overheating. Did you know coolant also prevents the engine from freezing? Coolant and antifreeze ensure the engine holds up to any temperature changes.
Regularly check the radiator to ensure you aren’t running low on antifreeze. If it appears a little low, fill the coolant up to the top line of the radiator. Failing to maintain your car’s coolant supply risks various vehicle complications, such as corrosion or a damaged water pump.
Apply a Ceramic Coating
Another essential care tip for your vehicle in the winter is applying a ceramic coating. Ceramic coatings protect the exterior of the vehicle from damaging UV rays and paint scratches. When ice and snow fall, you need to clear the frozen materials from your vehicle before driving, but you might worry you’ll damage your car in the process.
A ceramic coating helps defend the car’s paint from potential threats. As long as you follow the proper ceramic coating maintenance tips, your vehicle will have more protection.
Check the Air in Your Tires
You might notice your car alerting you with a message that you have low tire pressure. Cooler temperatures cause air molecules to move slower, resulting in the low tire pressure warning.
Even if your car doesn’t alert you with this warning, it’s important to check the tire pressure often during the cold season. If the tires lose a lot of air, add more with an air dispenser at home or a nearby gas station. It’s always best to take these precautions instead of driving on a flat.
The cold weather brings unpredictable weather that can have a significant effect on your vehicle. Remember these helpful car care tips to stay safe this winter season!