Winter weather can be tough on your vehicle, especially in Wayland, MI, and the surrounding areas. Taking some time to prepare your car for the cold temperatures, snow, and ice can help ensure safer, more reliable performance all season long. Here are some important winter maintenance tips to get your vehicle ready.
Check Your Tire Pressure and Tread
Proper tire inflation is always important, but it's especially critical during the colder months. Tire pressure drops as temperatures decrease, so be sure to check it at least once a month. While you're at it, inspect your tires' tread depth. If you regularly drive around Byron Center, MI, where snow can pile up quickly, you may want to consider switching to winter tires for better traction and handling.
Replace Your Wiper Blades and Refill Washer Fluid
Visibility is vital for winter driving. If your commute takes you through Caledonia, MI, you know how snowy and icy conditions can dramatically reduce visibility. Replace your wiper blades if they're showing signs of wear, and be sure to fill up your washer fluid reservoir with a winter blend that won't freeze. It's also a good idea to keep an extra gallon in your vehicle.
Test Your Battery and Check Fluid Levels
Winter is hard on your car's battery. Low temperatures can reduce its cranking power, making it harder to start your engine. If your battery is more than a few years old or you've noticed it struggling to start, it's wise to have it tested. Hastings, MI, locals know all too well how inconvenient a dead battery can be on a frigid morning. While under the hood, also check your vehicle's fluid levels, including oil, coolant, and brake fluid.
Keep an Emergency Kit in Your Vehicle
Even well-maintained vehicles can run into trouble, so it's always a good idea to keep an emergency kit in your car. Pack it with essentials like a flashlight, first-aid supplies, snacks, water, warm clothing, jumper cables, and a shovel. Hopefully, you won't need it, but you'll sure be glad to have it if you get stuck on the side of the road in the middle of a snowstorm.
One of the best ways to make sure your vehicle is ready for winter is to bring it to a trusted service center for a thorough checkup. The factory-trained technicians at Ed Koehn Ford of Wayland can spot potential issues and perform any necessary repairs or maintenance to help your vehicle perform its best all winter long. Stop by our convenient location in Wayland, MI, to get your car winter-ready.