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Rexburg and Idaho Falls Auto Repair

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Winter Maintenance Checklist for Your Vehicle

With winter upon us, we are but a short time away from cinnamon apple ciders and eggnog, but before we can dive into the beauty of winter, there are a few maintenance things you should really get done for your vehicle.

Car Battery

As you know, the battery is responsible for giving current to the engine so that the car can start. During the winter, when the temperatures are much lower, the current needed is much higher, which is why you need to perform a battery load test to ensure you won’t be left with a vehicle that won’t start this winter.
While we’re on the subject, let us say that you really should also check for nooks and cracks in the cables and terminals of the battery.

Tires

Let us start off by saying that you should really consider getting and mounting winter tires. They are made of special softer rubber that performs much better in the cold due to the fact that it remains more flexible. They perform better in cold weather, and ice and snow.

However, if you have decided to use all-season tires, then at least make sure that they can still be used during the winter by checking their tread. If the tread is less than 2/32” then absolutely change them.

Whichever type you choose, you will need to check the air pressure periodically. The manufacturers usually recommend 20-25 PSI, but do check your owner’s manual, just to be on the safe side.

Coolant/Antifreeze

Does your car have sufficient coolant? Check! The levels and condition of the coolant have to be inspected from time to time in order to ensure that they are just right.

The job of coolant during the winter is to ensure that the mixture in your engine’s cooling system will not freeze (especially during the night). Typically, antifreeze is mixed with water, and the proportions are 50/50. However, bear in mind that this may vary on the type and brand of antifreeze that you are using.

Wiper Blades and Fluid

While you are driving during the winter months, there are certain obstacles your wiper blades need to be able to handle – mud, snow, and ice. If they are old or worn down they won’t be able to do their job and your visibility through the window will be impaired. If you haven’t changed them recently, do so now - after all, better safe than sorry! Their longevity is usually around six months, maybe up to a year if the conditions haven’t been dire.

Also, top up your wiper fluid, and be sure to use a freeze-resistant one.

And there you go – that‘s the checklist you should aim for. Hopefully, it will be of help to you!

If, for any reason, you need help in finishing the tasks on it, don’t hesitate and bring your vehicle to our mechanics here at Oswald Service Inc! We promise we will take the best possible care for you and your vehicle!