5 Points Automotive Services

How should you prepare your car for winter?

Here are some tips for how to prepare your automobile for winter. This is often referred to as "winterize" or "winterizing your car."

Some of these tips can be performed by any do-it-yourselfer; others should be performed by an automotive technician.   Please refer to your owners manual for vehicle specific information.

Engine Performance - Engine driveability problems: slow starts, rough idling, stalling, diminished power, delayed heat control, etc. Issues of this type should be corrected at a qualified repair shop. Cold weather makes existing problems worse.Fuel - Put a bottle of fuel de-icer in your tank once a month to help keep moisture from freezing in the fuel line. Note that a gas tank which is kept filled helps keep moisture from forming. Consult your owners manual prior to using any additives.

Oil - Change your oil and oil filter more often, especially if your driving is mostly stop-and-go or your travel consists of frequent short trips.

Windshield Wipers - Replace old blades. If your climate is harsh, purchase rubber-clad (winter) blades to fight ice build-up. Stock up on windshield washer solvent-you'll be surprised how much you use. Carry an ice-scraper.

Heater/Defroster - The heater and defroster must be in good working condition for passenger comfort and driver visibility.

Battery - The only accurate way to detect a weak battery is with professional equipment.
Routine Battery Care: Scrape away corrosion from posts and cable connections; clean all surfaces; re-tighten all connections. If battery caps are removable, check fluid level monthly. Avoid contact with corrosive deposits and battery acid. Wear eye protection and rubber gloves.

Lights - Inspect all lights and bulbs; replace burned out bulbs; periodically clean road grime from all lenses. To prevent scratching, never use a dry rag.

Exhaust System - Your vehicle should be placed on a lift and the exhaust system examined for leaks. The trunk and floor boards should be inspected for small holes. Exhaust fumes can be deadly.

Tires - Worn tires will be of little use in winter weather.  Examine tires for remaining tread life, uneven wearing, and cupping; check the sidewalls for cuts and nicks. Check tire pressures once a month. Let the tires "cool down" before checking the pressure. Rotate your tires as recommended. Don't forget to inspect your spare tire. Be sure that you are familiar with your tire changing system and that it is complete and in working order.

Anti freeze - Get your coolant mixture right. It may be a good idea to have your radiator flushed out and add a 50/50 mix of water and coolant. If you are planning extended winter travel, some parts of the county call for a significantly different ratio depending on how cool the area gets.

Carry Emergency Gear: gloves, boots, blankets, flares, a small shovel, sand or kitty litter, tire chains, energy snacks and a flash light.

Give us a call, or if it is after hours feel free to schedule online.  If you have a question and cannot find the answer our site, submit your question and we will respond promptly.