10 Tips to Help Fight Winter
10 Simple Tips to help you get where you need to go safely this winter.
Sorry to be the bearer of bad news - but winter is upon us. Will your vehicle get you home safe?
AW has the parts you need to get you where you need to go safe and sound this winter season. A couple important hings to think about are winter wiper blades, batteries, tires, antifreeze, wiper fluid and snow brushes. We proudly carry all of these parts and more!
Don't get left in the cold! Swing by and prep ahead. We're here to help.
Tips to get ready for winter driving:
Batteries
Make sure your battery has the strength to survive the winter by getting it tested before the snow and colder temperatures arrive. Canada's cold winters and hot summers take a toll on your battery and will greatly reduce its lifespan. Batteries in our climate tend to last between 3 and 5 years.
Liquids
Keep your windshield clean by switching to a winter-grade windshield washer fluid. Washer fluids designed for colder temperatures won't freeze in the fluid reservoir or on your windshield.
Did you know your vehicle's engine can overheat just as easily in the winter months as during the summer? Ask your technician to check the level and strength of your coolant.
Oil change
Consider switching to synthetic grade oil. While more costly than conventional oil, synthetic oils won't break down as quickly as conventional oils, and will allow your engine to turn over with greater ease in colder temperatures. Synthetic oils are also better at handling extreme temperature changes; as every Canadian knows, we can go from summer to winter in just a few hours. Synthetic oils also break down slower, so they protect your engine longer.
Block heater
Your block heater helps keep your engine warm so it starts better in cold temperatures. Make sure yours is working properly before the cold temperatures set in. Also, check that the cord doesn't have any tears or cracks.
Tire pressure
When temperatures drop, so does your tire pressure. Check your tire pressure monthly; maintaining proper pressure helps prevent flats and optimizes fuel efficiency. Ensure your tire pressure is within factory specifications. The vehicles' owner's manual will have recommendations. The information can also be found on the door jam or glove box.
Tire condition
Make sure you've got the traction you need to drive and stop on snowy or icy roads. Tires where the tread pattern is wearing thin may have problems handling winter road conditions and will make driving dangerous. Place a dime in the tire's grooves with the sails facing down. If you can see the top of the sails, it's time to replace your tires.
Fuel
Cut down on the amount of condensation that forms in your fuel tank by keeping your tank at least half full. Condensation adds water to your tank, and can freeze in colder temperatures.
Belts and hoses
Ask your service technician to check for cracks, bulges or leaks and replace as necessary. You don't want something to snap or break due to colder temperatures when you're on the road.
Wiper Blades
It is amazing what a difference a low cost item can make. We recommend always changing your wiper blades before winter or to at least have a spare in your trunk. Having old or worn out wiper blades can deem treturous when driving in storms or wet, salted roads. Winter wiper blades are extremely beneficial in the winter months as they have been built and engineered to battle the elements.
Safety Gear
Plan for the unexpected. Before the bad weather hits, pack a box with a couple possible life saving items that only take take a few moments to gather up. A couple things to think about packing are a safety pylon (Make yourself visible in the case of an accident), Blankets, Candles (with lighter), Shovel, non perishable Food items and maybe a back of sand or rocks to help yourself gain grip in the snow. Think of anything else that might come in handy - you'll be glad you did should that box ever need to be put to use.
