January 2013 – Winter Car Care

Hello fellow Coloradoans (and all others reading this blog).  Today we are going to discuss winter car care.  As you all know it is very important to keep your automobiles in great running condition, especially in winter time.  So here are a few ideas for you….

Check your fluids –

It is important, especially in times of cold weather to make certain your auto fluids are maintained.  If that is so then it is doubly important that your anti-freeze is full and ready to protect you.  It’s a simple way to make sure you don’t freeze your engine during times of non-operation and overheating while driving down the road.  Also make sure you are full on windshield wiper fluid.  Nothing is harder or less safe than trying to drive down the road with mag-chloride mud stuck to your windshield.

Check your Tires –

During the winter when we are likely to get freezing temperatures and snowfall with possible blizzards it is extremely important that your tires are in good condition.  Check your tire tread to make certain that you have the tread required for winter driving.  Tire tread at 4/32” is great and you have no need to worry.  Tire tread at 3/32” is okay but you need to watch it and be ready to replace your tires soon.  If your tire tread is at 1/16” or less you are in dire need of replacement.  Also check and maintain the overall health of your tires for your own safety and the drivers you share the road with.

Get a tune up –

Getting your vehicle a proper tune up can help in at least a couple ways.  You will know that all your systems are maintained and safe during operation.  All your fluids will be at optimal quantities and you will not have to worry about the freezing temperatures coming.  A few of our favorite car care specialists:  Davis Repair, The Auto Shop, Colchin Automotive.  Give one of them a call today for the health of your vehicle.

Windshield health –

All year round here in Colorado we have stuff on the roads.  In the winter we have sand and mag-chloride, in the spring, summer and fall we are likely to encounter all sorts of debris.  All this debris can damage your windshield leaving it pock marked and possibly starred.  As the weather continues to grow colder those bits of damage may grow, decreasing your ability to see. Perhaps the problem is one you can fix on your own using a repair kit or perhaps you need a professional in which case we recommend you call one of the auto shops listed above.

Winter emergency car kit –

Don’t get caught unprepared.  Have a small emergency car kit in your car containing a bottle of water, a couple energy bars, a warm blanket, a candle, hats, gloves and other things you might find handy.  Getting caught on the road during a blizzard without emergency supplies can be deadly.  A small kit can cost pennies and save lives.

Be smart, be safe, and prepare your car for winter.

 

Thanks and have an electrically charged day!!!

The team at SJO Electric