10 useful tips to prepare your car for winter
As we all know, living in the Rocky Mountains can be very unpredictable when it comes to Mother Nature. We all know the stage too well. One day it’s beautiful and 70 degrees and the next day you find yourself in a freezing rain storm on I 70, which now looks more like a Target parking lot. You find yourself reacting quickly to the icy liquid that falls on your windshield by turning on the wipers. The usual mesmerizing sound this morning sounds more like nails on a blackboard.
Where did all the rubber from my windshield wipers go? Then it hits you like a broken record playing in your head. Her husband’s voice reminding her multiple times to replace her wipers and top up her fluid so this doesn’t happen. This year I promised myself to surprise my husband and prepare for winter. I went to my local auto repair shop, Pro Auto Care of Denver and got some tips from the experts. So here’s Denver, 10 easy ways to winterize your vehicle. I hope I don’t see any of you stranded on the side of I-70 this year.
1. Replace your wiper blades and top up your washer fluid. Believe it or not, there is a difference between standard wiper blades and snow wiper blades. Since we live in a cold weather state, it’s a good idea to buy windshield wiper blades. Here are some things to consider when buying:
- Made of heavy gauge steel
- Prevents snow and ice from accumulating
- Rugged rubber boot blade surface
You should be able to find wiper blades by doing a Google search or your local auto parts store. If in doubt, ask your local mechanic for advice.
two. Get an oil change. As the weather gets cooler in CO, the oil tends to thicken. When this happens you can tend to not lubricate your vehicle properly. Check your vehicle’s owner’s manual to find out which oils are suitable for your car in cold temperatures. Your local mechanic will also be a great resource.
3. Have your tire pressure checked. In Co, when the temperature changes drastically, it can also affect the tire pressure. Because tire traction is a key factor in icy and wet driving conditions, it is important to ensure that the pressure is ideal for your tires. If you don’t know how to check your tire pressure you can see this how to make video and save yourself the hassle of taking your car to the workshop.
Four. check your battery. The last thing you want is to be stranded on I-70 with a dead battery. Now is the time for CO to have your battery checked by a certified technician to see if it can hold a charge, especially if you have an older car. He also checks the battery for corrosion, this could be a sign that the battery is about to die.
5. Belts and hoses: Colorado weather can influence the wear on your belts and hoses due to our extreme temperature ranges. It’s a good idea to have your mechanic check the condition of your hoses and belts at every oil change.
6. 4 wheel drive? Driving in CO requires AWD or 4WD vehicles; we all know. As the weather gets colder, it’s a good time to have your mechanic check the operating conditions of this. Also keep in mind that everyone in your household should know how to put your car into 4WD if necessary.
7. How old are your tires?? If you’re planning to hit the slopes this winter, you may want to invest in some good snow tires for the season. In CO you can go for a really good all-season tire or at higher elevations you might want to buy some good snow tires. When you’re at your next oil change, ask your mechanic about the shape of your tires and what they recommend for the season.
8. Obtain a car emergency kit Ready. If you’re planning on taking long trips in Colorado this winter, this is essential. This kit should include a flashlight, fleece blanket, water, extra warm clothing, gloves, a hat, flares, jumper cables, a shovel, a spare tire, a first aid kit, and tire changing equipment.
9. Antifreeze Mix. Since we live in a colder climate, this is important. Your antifreeze should be a 50-50 mix of coolant and water. Talk to your mechanic at your next oil change about what’s right for your car.
10 Emergency plan: You’re headed to Vail for a weekend of skiing. So what’s your plan if your car breaks down? Your cell phone coverage may not work on I-70. When venturing out to CO this winter, make sure you always have an emergency plan. As we all know, Mother Nature isn’t always predictable here.