Though winter in Australia is relatively mild, it still poses a challenge to your vehicle. The extreme cold and the icy roads can wreak havoc on your car’s exterior, leading to costly repairs.
That’s why you have to consider winter car maintenance to ensure safety and durability.
Let’s walk you through some essential repairs throughout the winter so you can check your winter readiness.
Preparing Your Vehicle for Winter
General Maintenance Checks
From brakes and belts to hoses, check crucial car components. These parts are heavily compromised by the coldness and are vulnerable to rust due to road salt and slush.
Leverage up-to-date maintenance to address issues and prevent malfunctions on the road during the colder months.
Regular servicing and washing will do the trick. This can reduce the negative effects of winter moisture, maintaining the integrity of your car.
Essential Repairs and Checks
Battery Health
The cold weather makes it harder for the battery to provide the necessary power to ignite your vehicle’s engine. This leads to slow starting or, worse, no starting at all.
To avoid leaving your ride stranded in the frigid cold, conduct battery inspections.
- Power down your car and make sure all the accessories are disabled
- Use a multimeter to read the voltage of your car.
- Check the terminals for corrosion and polish them if necessary.
Wiper Blades and Windshield Care
The cold can cause the windshield to contract and the wiper blades to wear out faster, becoming ineffective on the road.
Consider replacing them using winter-specific wiper blades. Use freeze-resistant wiper fluid to keep it from freezing. An ice scraper also comes in handy to remove ice buildup in your wiper and windshield.
Tyre Condition and Pressure
Tyres become stiffer and harder. Why? Because the pressure in your tyres drops when the temperature lowers. That’s why you should inspect the tread depth and overall tyre condition to ensure safety.
Fluid Checks and Changes
Engine Oil and Other Fluids
Consider switching to synthetic oil in winter to withstand thermal breakdown. Using the right oil viscosity is important in the winter for seamless engine functioning.
In addition, check the coolant level. When you’re driving with low coolant, your engine can overheat or freeze, which can lead to complete engine damage.
Brake Fluid and Antifreeze
Check brake fluid regularly and make certain it is at optimal levels for safe stopping.
You can use antifreeze or engine coolant to regulate engine temperature and ensure a stable operating temperature.
Heating System Functionality
Testing the Heater and Defroster
Check and test the heating system of your car and be certain that it’s operational. A well-functioning heating system is critical for comfort and visibility.
The same thing applies to ensuring a functional defroster to clear fogged windows and maintain a safe and sound driving condition.
Emergency Preparedness
Winter Emergency Kit Essentials
Ready your emergency kit and brace any unexpected winter situations.
• Blankets
• Flares
• First-aid kit
• Flashlight
• Non-perishable food
• Kitty litter or sand for traction.
• Regular Roadside Assistance Checks
Having a plan in case of breakdowns can make a huge difference. Make sure you have roadside assistance and get the support you need when you need it.
Conclusion
From heating system and tyre condition to battery life, perform these checks regularly. Your winter readiness will ensure your safety in the changing harsh weather.
Need experts to guide you? Get in touch with GIA Smash Repair. We ensure optimal vehicle performance and safety on the road.