Keeping up with car maintenance is a chore at the best of times, but when the cold winter months roll around it can be even more difficult. With temperatures dropping and salt on the roads, your car requires extra attention to make sure it runs smoothly and safely. Fortunately, there are some simple steps you can take to keep your car in check during winter.
From checking your tire pressure to changing your oil regularly, these 5 tips will help you maintain your car and keep it running in peak condition all winter long.
Check Your Battery
Most car batteries are sealed and maintenance-free, but it's still a good idea to check your battery before winter sets in. Cold weather can cause battery problems, so it's best to be prepared.
If your battery is more than three years old, or if it's showing signs of wear, it's time for a replacement. If you do need to replace your battery, go to your nearest auto parts in UAE and be sure to choose one that is designed for cold weather starts.
Change Your Oil and Fluids
Motor oil thickens in cold weather, making it harder for your engine to turn over. This can lead to decreased fuel economy and increased wear on your engine. So, it's important to switch to lighter-weight motor oil in the winter months.
You should also check all of your other fluids, including coolant, brake fluid, and windshield wiper fluid. Make sure these are filled to the proper levels and that they are not frozen.
Do Regular Tire Checks
Tire pressure drops about 1 PSI for every 10 degrees of temperature change. So, in the winter when temperatures can fluctuate widely, it's important to check your tire pressure regularly.
It's also a good idea to inspect your tires for any cracks or damage that could cause problems down the road. If you see any issues, take your car to a trusted auto spare parts in UAE for replacing it.
Use Winter Grade Windshield Wiper Fluid
Regular windshield wiper fluid will freeze in cold weather, which can cause your wipers to fail. Winter-grade windshield wiper fluid is designed to withstand freezing temperatures, so it won't freeze up and cause problems. Make sure you always have a full reservoir of winter-grade fluid and top it off as needed to keep your wipers working properly.
Avoid Idling for Prolonged Periods of Time
While it may be tempting to let your car idle to keep warm, this can be detrimental to your car's health. Idling for long periods can cause your engine oil to break down and thicken, which can lead to decreased fuel efficiency and increased wear on engine components. If you need to keep your car running in the cold, try turning it off and on again every few minutes rather than letting it idle.
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