As the weather gets colder, it’s important to pay extra attention to keeping your car in good working order. Cold temperatures can take a toll on your vehicle, so it’s essential to follow some cold-weather car maintenance tips to avoid issues. With these winter car care tips from the auto experts at Kwik Kar, you can keep your car running smoothly all winter long.
Get an Oil Change
You hear us talk about this all of the time, but one of the most important things you can do is get an oil change before winter hits!
Oil gets thicker when temperatures drop, so switching to lower-viscosity oil makes it easier for your engine to start in cold weather. This will also ensure the oil flows properly to lubricate all the internal components.
Kwik Kar recommends getting an oil change every 3,000 miles or about every three months. Don’t wait until your dashboard light comes on to remind you. Beat the winter rush and stop by a local Kwik Kar near you to get fresh oil before the cold sets in. Our oil change guarantees premier service in 30 minutes or less.
Check Your Fluid Levels
Frigid weather can also cause fluids to contract and dip below minimum levels. Be sure to periodically pop your hood and check levels of vital fluids like oil, antifreeze, transmission fluid, brake fluid, power steering fluid, and windshield wiper fluid.
Top them off as needed, using the proper fluid for your vehicle’s make and model.
Not sure what you’re looking for or how to top off these fluids? No problem! Kwik Kar service advisors can perform fluids check and flush service when you need and the optimal levels for winter driving.
We always check your fluid levels as a courtesy during your oil change.
Pay Attention to Tire Pressure Warnings
When outdoor temperatures drop significantly, tire pressure decreases too. The ideal tire pressure level when cold is around 35 PSI for most passenger vehicles.
The tire pressure monitoring system on your dashboard will alert you when levels fall 25% below the recommended inflation pressure. Don’t ignore these warnings – follow our winter car care tip and fill your tires back up to the proper level. Kwik Kar provides tire service to ensure our customers maintain the correct tire pressure.
Other Essential Winter Car Care Tips
The change of seasons is a good time to get caught up on any deferred maintenance issues. Get your brakes, battery, belts, hoses, and lighting checked. Make sure wipers are in good condition and have plenty of wiper fluid. Replace air filters so your heater and defroster work optimally. Rotate tires to extend wear and ensure maximum traction.
The team at your neighborhood Kwik Kar are pros at spotting small problems and solving them at a great price before they turn into major repair headaches down the road.
Prepare an Emergency Cold Weather Kit
Even with proper winter car care maintenance, you can still run into trouble on a frigid winter day. Make sure you have a well-stocked emergency kit in your car at all times. Useful items to include inan emergency kit are:
- Jumper cables
- Traction mats or chains
- A flashlight
- Blanket
- Gloves
- Scraper
- Shovel
- Bottled water
- Snacks
- Phone charger
- First aid kit and any essential medications
If you find yourself stranded, stay with your vehicle and call for help.
Stay Cold-Weather Ready With Kwik Kar
Following these winter car care maintenance tips can go a long way toward making sure your vehicle runs reliably all winter.
Don’t wait until you have issues to check things out. Stop by a Kwik Kar near you now for an oil change, fluid check, and any other service to keep your car in shape for the cold ahead.
Our expert technicians will get you driving off with peace of mind, knowing you and your car can brave the elements in style and safety this winter. Walkins welcome or call your nearby location to make an appointment.
