Another chilly Mid-Atlantic winter is already upon us. We hope everyone is staying safe on the roads and driving smart these next few months. A big part of this is making sure you are taking care of your car with the proper winter maintenance. This will improve handling, performance and safety while driving, and you certainly don't want to be stranded on the side of the road if something breaks down!
Here are a few winter car care tips from Fox Run Auto in Bear, Delaware:
1. Replace Your Windshield Wiper Blades
It's an easy task that we often overlook until it becomes a problem. Make sure you have good visibility with wiper blades, ample washer fluid and a well-functioning wiper system. Keeping an ice scraper and some fresh towels in your car at all times is also a good idea.
2. Check Your Headlights and Tail Lights
Be sure that all your headlights, tail lights and running lights are working properly and that they are nice and bright. Replace any bulbs or fix any wiring problems if they aren't. It will improve your visibility on the road and help other drivers and pedestrians see you better, as well.
3. Remember the Importance of Tire Care
Bald tires can literally be deadly when the roads are slick. Check your tire treads and air pressure, and upgrade to all-weather tires if you want to feel extra safe.
4. Get a Cooling System Inspection
The cooling system not only keeps your engine from overheating in the summer. It helps keep things from seizing up in the winter. There is a reason that radiator coolant is also referred to as antifreeze. Get a cooling system inspection and tune-up before it becomes an issue during the coldest parts of winter.
5. Get an Oil Change
You should be getting standard oil changes at regular intervals anyway. It's all about keeping fresh oil running through the engine to keep things running smoothly and prevent internal damage. Clean oil is more important than ever during the cold weather months.
6. Tune Up Your Heating System
You want to make sure your car's heater is working well to keep you warm. Also, tune up the defrosting system as needed, so that you have optimum visibility.
7. Clean Your Undercarriage
Road salt, ice and rain can kick up a lot of nasty stuff while you drive. When you live on the East Coast, it's important to keep your undercarriage clean to prevent issues with your suspension, brakes and drivetrain components.
7. General Inspection and Maintenance
It's never a bad idea to get all the key systems in your vehicle checked out before we get too deep into the winter season. This may include the transmission, cooling system, suspension, brakes, power steering, exhaust system, ignition system, battery, alternator, spark plugs and other components that can lead to big trouble if they fail.
These are just a few things to help you keep your vehicle in good shape this winter, and to keep you safer on the road. For all your winter maintenance and repair needs in Northern Delaware, count on the team at Fox Run Auto to get the job done right. Call us today at (302) 597-9205 or schedule your service appointment online. Also, if you need a tow or roadside assistance, give us a call and we'll be there to help!