3 Tips To Keep Your Vehicle Moving This Winter
Winter isn't just harsh on the body—it's also harsh on your vehicle. Between heavy snow, ice, and frigid temperatures, winter weather can have many harsh effects on the condition of your vehicle—effects that could leave you stranded on the side of the road. To keep your car healthy and in motion, make sure you are taking proper care of it this winter.
Maintain Coolant Levels
Make sure you have an adequate level of coolant in your vehicle. Coolant is responsible for keeping your vehicle engine's in good condition by preventing it from overheating. When your coolant levels drop, you put your engine in jeopardy.
Follow your owner's guide to see how to check the coolant level and if it is low, make sure you're topping it off. It might also be wise to speak with a mechanic about a winter blend of coolant that is designed to have a lower freezing point than regular coolant, making it even more effective.
Check Tire Pressure
When the temperature outside drops, understand that the level of air pressure in your tires will also often decline. If your tires are already low on pressure and a cold front comes in, you're putting yourself in a dangerous situation. When tires are under-inflated, they wear faster and lose some of their stopping power.
In a situation where the roads are already slick, having reduced stopping power is not a good idea. If your vehicle isn't equipped with a pressure monitoring system, make it a point to check your pressure on a regular basis, such as once a week.
Keep Your Tank Full
If you're a person who likes to see just how many miles you can drive with low fuel, ditch this habit. This type of driving habit can be especially problematic during the winter. The more space in your fuel tank, the more space there is for moisture to accumulate inside the tank.
Moisture will eventually travel to the fuel pump, where it may freeze. Freezing in the fuel pump can cause permanent damage because the solidified ice makes the pump expand. The best way to combat this is to keep more fuel in your tank than empty space to prevent moisture buildup.
If your vehicle is stranded, keep your safety in mind. Particularly when the weather is bad outside, such as when visibility is limited, it's not safe for you to try and move or service your vehicle on your own. Make sure you're calling on a professional tow service to stay safe and warm.
