How You And Your Car Or Auto Dealer Can Prepare Your Car For An Upstate New York Winter
Upstate New York residents know that investing a little time and money before winter pays off when freezing weather strikes
. Hidden problems like an old battery, unchanged engine oil, worn out spark plugs or a bad thermostat can rear their ugly heads on cold mornings. Your local auto dealer in New York can help you prepare by providing winterization services. You can also perform inspections at home, such as checking for worn-out tires and windshield wipers.The following components of your car should be checked before winter strikes: the condition of the battery, battery terminals, the engine cooling system, all the belts, brakes, the tires, lights, and the status of all engine fluids. Since your car needs to be lifted on a hoist to check the brakes, steering and suspension, its better to head to your local car dealer in NY than a small quick lube place.
Its a good idea to install winter tires, especially in blizzard-prone upstate NY.Winter tires are designed to improve traction on snow-covered or icy roads. If you purchase winter tires from your dealership, theyll often conveniently store your regular tires for you. Remove your winter tires after the seasons over; they wear faster on dry roads in warm conditions.
Have your dealer check your battery if you feel that the cranking speed is lower than usual, and replace it if its over three years old. A dead battery is one of the most common causes for a no-start during the winter.The mechanic should also check to be sure the battery terminals are clean and tight, and check the batterys ability to hold a charge.Be warned, however, as no matter what you do, batteries can fail without warning.
Check your tire pressure regularly in winter, as itll likely drop as the weather cools. Proper pressure is essential for maintaining traction. Overfilled tires compromise stability, and underfilled tires cause excessive friction between the tires and the ground. Proper pressure impacts both your safety and fuel economy, so check for your vehicles recommended measurement on one of the door posts, inside the glove compartment or under the center console. Make sure your spare tire is in good condition as well.
Invest in winter wipers, as youll need the best-possible visibility in blinding snowstorms. Fill up the washer reservoir with a winter windshield washing fluid to resist dangerous re-freeze. Clean and adjust the washer jets so they spray properly, and make sure your heater and defroster are working properly so you can keep the windshield clear.
by: Christen R.