Coming of the winter months need winter-proofing for cars. Other seasons are a doozy compared to winter! All these maintenance tasks that should be check-listed to be truly winter-ready. From top to bottom everything is to get any car in running condition, especially in winter. Cold weather is trying on combustion engine cars that have many fluids in the engine. Complete all these tasks before winter. Do it later then do not complain. Do it now.
1. Do a check on up the radiator cap and thermostat. Replace if needed.
Make sure the radiator is tight and not loose. This will leak anti-freeze that is needed in the cooling system. See if the thermostat is working. A busted one will not produce heat for the cabin.
2. Inspect your diesel engine to avoid problems like fuel gelling during winter.
Keep the diesel exhaust fluid (DEF) levels normal. If the sensor warns of low levels, then fill it up. Another problem is gelling fuel that needs DEF to prevent it.
3. See if your tires are winter-ready and if they need a replacement asap.
Tires are crucial and getting snow tires should be a priority. The grip is better on snow than all-season tires. If the tread is just worn enough, better change all four tires for balance.
4. Check on the car battery and see if it needs replacement.
If the car battery is more than two years old, replace it. Have it checked if it discharges often. Whatever happens, a problematic battery should be replaced asap. Especially in winter when batteries and cold do not mix!
5. Time to change the oil before winters coming.
Do the change oil according to the suggested winter specs of the manufacturer. Old can be detrimental to the moving parts of the engine.
6. Make sure that fuel injectors are not clogged or if they need changing.
They spray in fuel with the air mixture automatically. Apply a fuel injector cleaner to clean the residue in them. It prevents fuel from icing up with some additives.
7. Have de-icing sprays ready if they are needed. Be prepared for it.
These are needed to unfreeze frozen doors, locks and even the windshield wiper included. A can should be kept when needed to de-ice a locked car door.
8. See if the cooling system will need anti-freeze in it.
Put anti-freeze in the radiator to prevent water from freezing in the cooling system.
9. Check all light bulbs, wipers washers, and refill de-icing fluid for the wiper washer.
Make sure all the bulbs work and wipers are not worn. Fill up the wiper washer with de-icer fluid.
10. Clean the exterior getting rid of gunk and chemicals that can mar the paint finish.
Detail the car before winter to clean off the residue and dirt. Apply wax to repel dirt and chemicals that corrode it.
Just remember to do winter-proofing before winter! Schedule these maintenance tasks at your local garage or DIY it. All car systems must be in running condition without exemption. Take the time to do it or be sorry later.
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