Check the tread and pressure of your tires.
It is always important to make sure your tires have plenty of tread. This is especially true during the winter because the roads tend to be slippery due to ice or snow. If you live in a place where there is an excess amount of ice and snow, you may want to invest in winter tires. Not sure how to check? Stop by Cave Springs Conoco so we can check them for you and have you back on the road with a brand new set of tires.
Test your battery.
Batteries do not always give a warning sign before they fail. They work best in warm climates and can leave you stranded if they are weak during the winter. Testing your battery only takes a few minutes and it can save you from future problems.
Load your car with winter necessities.
Winter necessities for your car include: an ice scraper, a blanket, an extra coat and gloves, a first aid kit, a flashlight, water, a snack, jumper cables, tire-changing equipment, a spare tire, a phone charger, etc. You can personalize your necessities depending on where you live and how often you drive.
Invest in De-Icer.
There are multiple types of de-icer that can be purchased at your local store or auto parts shop. The most common type of de-icer is a spray can. This can help you if you are in a rush and do not have time to sit and wait for the ice to melt off your windshield. They also make de-icer windshield wiper fluid that you can exchange for the normal windshield wiper fluid in the winter. Have a problem with doors, latches, or locks freezing? You can purchase a lock de-icer that you can spray in lock cylinders, door latches, door hinges, and door and window seals/channels. If lock de-icer is something you do not want to purchase, a silicone lubricating compound will work in a similar way.
Keep your gas tank half full at all times or completely full if the vehicle sits for long periods of time.
Moisture will build up in your tank if there is a lot of empty space. This moisture dilutes the fuel and puts stress on your car's fuel pump and other parts. The stress on your vehicle becomes even worse if the moisture in your tank freezes. Less moisture will build up in your tank the more fuel you keep in it.
Check your windshield wiper blades.
Wiper blades are cheap and get damaged easily during the winter. With ice or snow on your windshield, wipers wear quickly. When your wipers freeze to the windshield, it can cause them to break. Come to Cave Springs Conoco and we can replace your wipers quick and easy!
Check your brakes.
Other than tires, brakes are another part of your vehicle that is extremely important for safe driving. The salt and moisture on the roads during the winter can cause rust on your brake components. Making sure that your brake components are functioning properly and rust free is imperative to staying safe when stopping your vehicle.
Check your fluids.
Checking all your fluids should be something you or your mechanic does all year. Your fluids help keep your vehicle at top performance. If your fluids are discolored, thick, or have debris, it is important that the fluid is flushed. These fluids include: engine oil, antifreeze, transmission fluid, windshield wiper fluid, power steering fluid, transfer case fluid, and front/rear differential fluid.
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