Preventing Accidents With Automobile Check-ups
Winter brings with it a mixture of freezing temperatures
, salted roads, and wintry moisture. Before the snow really hits, you should make sure that your car is up to the challenge this year.If you get your car checked and everything updated you will have a lower chance of getting in a car accident. Many of the accidents during winter are caused by sliding and drivers having a hard time seeing the road. Be the most prepared for winter driving by getting maintenance work done on your car.
Winter safety check-ups are important especially if you live in a place that gets snow and ice. During winter your car needs to be in top shape to stay controlled and working well.
First, check your antifreeze.
Antifreeze is the liquid that goes in your radiator. Antifreeze is an essential part of your car's winter protection that works to stop your car from getting too cold.
Your car contains a 50/50 mix of water and antifreeze. Make sure the level is full and the mixture is close to 50/50, so that it does not freeze in the cold.
Many service stations and repair centers will check this mixture for free, or you can buy a tester and do it yourself for around $5.
Second, get your tires inspected. This is probably the most important thing when it comes to winter maintenance. Your tires need to work on ice and snow.
Winter is not the time to get cheap about your tires. Take them into your mechanic to have them check the tread depth.
U.S. law requires tires to have easy-to-see tread wear indicator bars running from one side of their tread design on the tires to the other when the tire's tread has worn down to the minimum legal limit of 2/32 inch.
Also, be sure to check your tire pressure. Tire pressure generally goes down at least a little bit in the cold weather.
Third, be sure that your windshield wipers are working properly. If they are not properly working, make sure to replace your wipers before the snow starts to fall. Wipers are a lifesaver when the snow is falling and wet slush splashes up on the windshield.
Fourth, check your windshield washer fluid.
Snow is white, but do you remember what it looks like when mixed with car exhaust. It definitely looks closer to black.
When the snow from off the road splashes up on your car it will make it dirty. This is where windshield washer fluid comes in to clean off your dirty windshield. When you have a clean windshield it is much easier to see the road.
Fifth, check your headlights. When driving in winter the sun goes down earlier and comes up later causing drivers to use their headlights more.
Take the time to replace any dull lights or bulbs that have gone out. Remember that it is unsafe to drive with only one headlight but you can also get a ticket.
On top of the checks you need to perform to ensure safe winter driving, get all of your maintenance work out of the way and do it at the same time. Here is your check list of things that you should get checked every year.
First, get your spark plug wires inspected.
Cracked plug wires affect many aspects of your car. These include performance, gas mileage, and the general reliability of your automobile. Be sure your spark plugs are in top shape.
They are easy to check and easy to change. If there is a problem with your spark plug wires get them checked immediately. If you don't, they can cause bigger problems than they are worth.
Second, inspect your brakes and ensure that they are working properly. A quick check up is definitely worth your time.
If you start feeling like your brakes are seizing up or not working properly, quickly take them into a mechanic to be checked and fixed.
Third, check your engine oil. If it is low make sure you add more oil. Oil is a crucial component to keeping your car functioning properly. Take the time to check your oil at least monthly, all year round.
Fourth, clean your battery posts. Corrosion is very likely to build up on your battery posts during winter weather driving. Check your battery posts and cables to ensure you'll have no starting problems.
When you take the time to take care of your car it will be more prepared to take care of you. Before driving this winter, get all your maintenance work done so that your vehicle can operate smoothly in the harsh months ahead.
by: Tom Selwick